FCTA Doctors Slam Delay in Meeting Demands Despite Wike’s Approval

Doctors under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have expressed deep disappointment over the government’s failure to implement their demands despite approval from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

President of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD-FCTA), Dr George Ebong, voiced the frustration during a press conference on Monday in Abuja, lamenting that despite weeks of engagement, the situation remains unchanged.

The doctors, who joined the nationwide indefinite strike declared by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on November 1, said healthcare services in FCT hospitals have been crippled.

Ebong said the doctors’ grievances include unpaid October salaries, delayed payments, unpaid salary arrears, non-payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), lack of promotions, and poor hospital infrastructure.

“It is disappointing that the minister approved our demands, yet nothing has been implemented,” he said. “As of today, November 3, we have not been paid last month’s salary. It has become a culture in the FCTA that salaries come late — and when they do, they’re incomplete.”

He accused some individuals within the administration of frustrating Wike’s directives, adding that hospitals in the nation’s capital are deteriorating despite having qualified professionals.

“We have good doctors, pharmacists, and scientists, but no good hospitals. The minister must act urgently — we believe he’s not getting the full picture,” he said.

The doctors reaffirmed their commitment to continue the strike until all their demands are met.