As the indefinite strike by resident doctors begins across Nigeria, healthcare services have been severely impacted, leaving patients without necessary medical attention. Many hospitals, including Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), are experiencing a significant decrease in patient care, with only a few nurses available to provide basic first aid.
At LASUTH, the Surgical Emergency Unit was nearly empty, with patients waiting outside as no admissions were being processed. Relatives reported that only limited first aid was being provided. A security officer noted the challenges faced by patients, stating, “Nobody can attend to you. If you bring anyone here, the best we can do is refer you elsewhere.”
The strike has led to widespread abandonment of duties by resident doctors, prompting fears among patients who are unable to receive the care they need. Many are being referred to other facilities, often facing difficulty in finding adequate alternatives.
Dr. Muhammad Suleiman, President of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), reiterated that the strike will continue indefinitely until their 19-point demands, including salary reviews and allowances, are fully addressed. Currently, only two of these demands are being considered by the government.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the Federal Ministry of Health announced that substantial funds have been released to address outstanding payments and that discussions with health unions are ongoing. They have also initiated plans to recruit 15,000 additional health workers in 2025 to mitigate the impact of the strike.
The effects of the strike are being felt nationwide, with hospitals in states like Bayelsa and Cross River reporting deserted wards. Patients in critical conditions are struggling to receive necessary care, with many opting to leave hospitals in search of services elsewhere.
The situation remains dire as resident doctors maintain their stance, and the healthcare system faces increasing pressure. The strike continues to highlight the critical role of resident doctors in the Nigerian healthcare system, as the absence of their services leads to significant challenges for patients and healthcare facilities alike.
