Doctors’ Strike Paralyzes Services at National Hospital and FMC Jabi

The indefinite strike by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has crippled medical services at major public hospitals in Abuja, including the National Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, leaving patients stranded and in distress.

During visits by The Guardian, wards and emergency units were largely deserted, with several patients discharged or referred to private clinics. Many expressed frustration, appealing to the Federal Government to resolve the doctors’ demands and end recurring strikes in the health sector.

Although the government pledged to release ₦11.995 billion within 72 hours to offset arrears and allowances, NARD insists the strike will continue until all 19 of its demands are met. “We have 19 demands; that is our minimum threshold,” said NARD spokesperson, Dr. Muhammad Suleiman.

At FMC Jabi, a nurse confirmed that only minimal care was being provided, while several patients were sent home or referred elsewhere. A police officer at the National Hospital, awaiting surgery after sustaining gunshot wounds, pleaded with the government to intervene, lamenting that “no doctors are available to operate.”

The strike has once again highlighted the fragility of Nigeria’s healthcare system, with ordinary citizens bearing the heavy toll of the standoff between doctors and the government.