Medical doctors across Nigeria have announced plans to commence a nationwide strike starting Thursday, citing unresolved grievances with the government. The decision follows months of unsuccessful negotiations over issues including poor working conditions, delayed salaries, inadequate funding for healthcare facilities, and lack of essential medical equipment.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), which represents the doctors, said the strike is necessary to compel the government to address these longstanding challenges that have negatively affected the healthcare sector and patient care.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the NMA emphasized that the strike would be indefinite and called on the government to engage urgently in meaningful dialogue to avert the shutdown of critical health services nationwide.
Patients and healthcare stakeholders have expressed concern over the impending strike, warning that it could exacerbate the already fragile healthcare system, especially as the country continues to grapple with various health crises.
Government officials have yet to respond formally to the strike notice. However, previous efforts to resolve the doctors’ demands have seen limited progress.
The NMA urged Nigerians to understand that the strike is a last resort aimed at improving healthcare delivery for all citizens and ensuring doctors can operate in a conducive environment.
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