Lagos Govt Urges Doctors to Halt Warning Strike, Assures Swift Action on Salary Concerns

The Lagos State Government has appealed to the Medical Guild to call off its planned three-day warning strike, assuring the union that their grievances are being addressed with urgency.

Doctors under the Medical Guild—representing public sector physicians in Lagos—are set to commence a warning strike on Monday, July 28, 2025, from 8:00 a.m., in protest against what they describe as “unlawful and disrespectful” salary deductions. The strike is expected to end at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 31.

In a statement issued on Sunday by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Health, the government acknowledged the issues raised by the Guild during a press briefing held on Saturday, July 26. The statement emphasized that the concerns, particularly regarding alleged unauthorized deductions, are being taken seriously.

“The Lagos State Government wishes to assure the general public that the doctors’ concerns are being addressed with utmost sincerity and urgency. Discussions and engagements with the Medical Guild are actively ongoing,” the statement read.

The Ministry noted that this is the first such incident in recent years within the state’s health sector and reiterated its commitment to the welfare and motivation of healthcare workers.

To this end, a Conciliation Committee comprising representatives from both the government and the Medical Guild has already been formed. The committee has convened and is currently reviewing documents submitted by the Guild in accordance with relevant policies and fiscal procedures.

“As a responsible government, we deeply appreciate the essential role healthcare professionals play in serving the over 20 million residents of Lagos. We therefore urge the Medical Guild to continue on the path of constructive dialogue as we strive for a fair and peaceful resolution that prioritizes the welfare of both the workers and the public,” the statement concluded.