The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Enugu State branch, has thrown its full weight behind the ongoing nationwide strike by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), accusing the Federal Government of failing to act on time to prevent the industrial action.
In a statement jointly signed by the NMA State Chairman, Dr. Ndiokwelu Chibuzo, and General Secretary, Dr. Agbo Chukwuemeka, the association said the strike was entirely avoidable had the government responded promptly to NARD’s 30-day ultimatum.
“The indefinite strike action was avoidable if the government had acted within the 30-day window provided by the NARD in an earlier ultimatum,” the statement read. “Sadly, the inaction of the government led to the present situation where the resident doctors have now downed tools in a total and comprehensive action.”
The NMA noted that the ongoing strike reflects years of neglect and underfunding of Nigeria’s health sector, warning that unless the government prioritizes the welfare of doctors and the working conditions in hospitals, the system will continue to deteriorate.
The association described the demands of resident doctors as “justified and necessary,” insisting that the strike goes beyond personal welfare and touches on the survival of the nation’s healthcare system.
“Your fight is absolutely justified and for this reason you can count on our total support and solidarity. It is a fight not just for your welfare, but for the health system in Nigeria,” the statement added.
The NMA urged resident doctors to remain resolute and peaceful in their pursuit of justice, assuring them of unwavering support from the medical community.
“In total solidarity, we stand with you,” the Enugu NMA declared.
Resident doctors under NARD began an indefinite strike after the expiration of their 30-day ultimatum to the Federal Government. Their grievances include unpaid salaries and arrears, the failure to provide adequate medical equipment in hospitals, and the government’s inability to implement previously signed agreements.
NARD has also expressed concern over the mass exodus of doctors from Nigeria due to poor working conditions, lack of incentives, and insecurity. The association argues that without immediate intervention, Nigeria’s healthcare system risks total collapse.
The strike, which has affected medical services across teaching hospitals and federal medical centres, has left many patients stranded. Emergency services have been scaled down in several states, while elective surgeries and outpatient clinics have been suspended.
The NMA in Enugu State accused successive governments of failing to treat healthcare as a priority. According to the association, doctors have been working under difficult conditions with inadequate facilities, poor remuneration, and constant threats to their safety.
“Doctors have endured far too much. Many work in dilapidated hospitals with no modern equipment, no electricity, and no basic supplies. Yet, they continue to serve with dedication. It is unfair that the same government cannot fulfil its promises to them,” the NMA stated.
The group also noted that the strike should serve as a wake-up call for the government to re-examine its approach to healthcare reform and worker welfare.
The ongoing strike has sparked mixed reactions across the country. While some Nigerians have criticised doctors for abandoning patients, others have blamed the Federal Government for failing to address the root causes of the crisis.
Civil society groups and labour unions have also urged the government to immediately engage with NARD and other medical associations to end the strike, describing the situation as a threat to public health.
In Enugu, hospitals such as the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, have reduced operations to skeletal services. Patients with chronic illnesses and emergency cases are being referred to private clinics, many of which are overwhelmed.
The NMA appealed to both the Federal and State Governments to show sincerity and urgency in resolving the crisis. It also called for increased funding for healthcare, the employment of more medical professionals, and the improvement of hospital infrastructure.
The association further highlighted that the welfare of healthcare workers should be seen as a matter of national importance, not political convenience.
Nigeria’s healthcare system has long been plagued by underinvestment, brain drain, and poor infrastructure. According to reports, the country has lost thousands of medical professionals to migration, with many relocating to the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Gulf states in search of better opportunities.
The NMA’s backing of the resident doctors adds significant weight to the strike, signalling growing frustration within the medical community over years of unfulfilled promises.
As negotiations continue, Nigerians hope both sides will reach a resolution that protects the interests of healthcare workers while restoring normalcy to hospitals across the nation.
