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The Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (ARD-FCTA) has called off its indefinite strike, paving the way for medical services to resume across hospitals in Abuja.
The suspension was announced on Friday by the association’s president, Dr George Ebong, who confirmed that doctors will officially return to duty on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 8 a.m.
Dr Ebong explained that the decision to suspend the strike followed the intervention of the Senate Committee on Federal Territory Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, as well as out of respect for the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
“We decided to step down our industrial action because of the Senate’s involvement and in recognition of the FCT Minister,” Dr Ebong said.
“Although none of our requests have been implemented yet, we have been assured that discussions will continue with the minister. We are hopeful he will listen to us.”
The resident doctors had embarked on an indefinite strike earlier in the week, citing poor working conditions, inadequate remuneration, and unmet welfare needs as reasons for the industrial action.
Health workers and patients across the FCT had expressed concern over the impact of the strike, warning that prolonged service disruption could worsen the already strained healthcare system.
By suspending the strike, the association said it was giving the authorities room to address its demands, stressing that a failure to do so could force them back to the negotiating table.
“Calling off this action does not mean our struggles are over,” Dr Ebong added. “It is simply a sign of good faith that we want dialogue, not confrontation.”
With the doctors’ return to work set for Monday, many residents are optimistic that healthcare services in the FCT will quickly stabilise, though uncertainties remain over whether the government will fulfil its promises.