Atiku Warns of Healthcare Shutdown as Resident Doctors Begin Indefinite Strike
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a stark warning about a potential nationwide healthcare shutdown, as the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) commences a total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike. The strike, set to begin at midnight on April 7, 2026, stems from unresolved welfare issues and what NARD describes as the Federal Government's breach of agreement on the Professional Allowance Table (PAT).
NARD's Demands and Government Breach
In a statement posted on its official X account, NARD condemned the suspension of PAT implementation, asserting that this decision undermines prior commitments and threatens the well-being of doctors across Nigeria. The association has called for the immediate reversal of the PAT suspension, labeling it a violation of agreements reached with health workers. Additionally, NARD demanded the payment of all outstanding promotion and salary arrears owed to its members, highlighting that prolonged delays have severely affected morale within the health sector.
The doctors also urged the swift conclusion and disbursement of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), noting that funding gaps are hindering the training and development of resident doctors. Other demands include the payment of 19 months' PAT arrears, the regularisation of house officers' salaries, and the clearance of all outstanding arrears. NARD warned that if the government fails to take urgent steps to address these concerns, the strike will proceed as planned, potentially crippling healthcare services nationwide.
Atiku's Support and Broader Implications
Atiku Abubakar, in a statement on his X handle, backed NARD and accused the Federal Government of failing to honor agreements with the association. He emphasized that it is unacceptable for resident doctors to beg for entitlements that had already been agreed upon, particularly the PAT signed by the government. According to Atiku, this failure reflects a broader pattern of disregard for healthcare workers, many of whom are leaving Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad, exacerbating the brain drain in the medical field.
FUTATH's Response to Union Allegations
In a related development, the management of FUTA Teaching Hospital (FUTATH) in Akure, Ondo State, has refuted allegations made by the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Ondo State Council. The union had accused the hospital of arbitrary staff removal, demotions, and intimidation. In a statement by its Head of Public Relations, Tope Fayehun, the management described these claims as unfounded and misleading, asserting that every action taken aligns with established frameworks and best practices applicable to all federal teaching hospitals nationwide.
FUTATH's management reaffirmed its dedication to staff welfare and the delivery of world-class healthcare, emphasizing that operational decisions are aimed at optimizing service delivery for patients. The hospital operates within transparent and collaborative processes, which have been acclaimed by the majority of workers. The management denied all allegations against the Chief Medical Director and the hospital administration, urging NUAHP executives and members to shelve their planned action and engage constructively through ongoing dialogue channels to ensure uninterrupted compassionate care for patients.
