When Doctors Strike, the Nation Bleeds...

Anthony EKPO BASSEY 

When doctors drop their tools, the morgue fills up. The 21-day ultimatum it issued to the Federal Government expired on July 23, 2025.  The Nigerian Medical Association through its president, Prof. Bala Audu, has warned that it will ground medical services nationwide if the government fails to meet its demands.

As Nigeria teeters on the edge of another medical strike, the consequences could be catastrophic. With lives hanging by a thread and hospitals already overwhelmed, this is not the time for silence or delay. The nation calls not only on the doctors but on its leaders to rise to the occasion.

This is a passionate appeal to the Nigerian medical doctors, to reconsider the proposed strike in light of the sanctity of human lives and the devastating impact of previous industrial actions. While their grievances which include poor remuneration, outdated facilities, and chronic neglect, are valid, the timing of such a strike could cost thousands of lives.  May  patriotism and compassion  guide their decision.

Nigerians  place a firm demand on the Federal Government, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Health Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, and Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu  Maigari Dingyadi, to immediately address the systemic decay in the health sector. Regrettably, the poor working conditions in the healthcare system has contributed to the exodus of Nigerian doctors seeking greener pastures, abroad.

We call on  influential voices, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and civil society leaders, to intervene and broker a resolution that prevents needless loss of lives. Finally, we caution President Tinubu not to follow the footsteps of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose legacy includes neglecting local healthcare while seeking treatment abroad.

This is a defining moment. Healing Nigeria begins with healing its healers.