Medical practitioners under the Federal Capital Territory branch of the National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP) have put an end to their three-month-long strike, attributing the decision to what they termed the firm intervention of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Doctors have therefore been directed to resume duties immediately while negotiations continue to secure full payment of all entitlements.
The strike, which had crippled services across hospitals under the Area Council Service Commission, was called off after the minister moved to address the doctors’ longstanding grievances over unpaid salaries, allowances, and welfare concerns.
In a statement issued by the association’s chairman, Dr Okoreaffia Ogbonnaya, on Sunday, the doctors said they had resolved to call off the industrial action after the minister showed “demonstrated commitment” to addressing their concerns.
“We acknowledge and deeply appreciate his demonstrated commitment to addressing the welfare concerns of our members, including the initial payments received as part of the resolution process,” Dr Ogbonnaya said.
The prolonged strike, led by NAGGMDP members, had severely disrupted services in hospitals under the Area Council Service Commission, as doctors demanded payment of outstanding salaries and allowances, alongside improved welfare conditions.
According to Dr Ogbonnaya, the minister’s involvement had “displayed leadership and responsiveness which have been instrumental in restoring hope and confidence among healthcare workers”.
“We are committed to working closely with the FCT Administration and Area Council Chairmen to ensure the prompt payment of all pending salaries, allowances, and entitlements,” he added.
The association further expressed its readiness to engage constructively with the authorities to achieve lasting solutions for the health sector.
