By Jesusemen Oratokhai
The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), in Abuja has ended its warning strike following the intervention of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The strike, which began on Wednesday, had paralyzed services in FCTA-owned hospitals, with doctors demanding payment of salary arrears and other entitlements.
Dr. George Ebong, ARD President, announced on Friday that the FCTA had fulfilled key demands, including the payment of six months’ salary arrears, disbursement of accoutrement allowances, approval of a two-year residency bonding program, employment of additional doctors and health workers, and payment of outstanding wages for locum staff.
Doctors are set to resume work on Saturday, January 25, 2025, averting an indefinite shutdown of healthcare services.
While expressing gratitude to Minister Wike for his swift response, Dr. Ebong urged the government to address other lingering issues, including hazard allowances and facility upgrades, to avoid future industrial actions.