LASUTH doctors’ strike threatens Lagos healthcare system, NMA warns

The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) faces a potential healthcare crisis as resident doctors begin a three-day warning strike. The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State branch, has expressed grave concern, warning that the industrial action could escalate into a broader disruption if urgent measures are not taken.

The strike, initiated by the Association of Resident Doctors at LASUTH, stems from the alleged failure of the Lagos State Government and relevant authorities to address long-standing welfare issues affecting medical personnel. Dr. Ewonowo Sunday, NMA Lagos Chairman, described the situation as "deeply unfortunate but avoidable," attributing the breakdown in industrial harmony to prolonged delays in negotiations.

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We view this development with deep concern. Regrettably, this crisis was avoidable if all concerned stakeholders had been more proactive and responsive in addressing the legitimate concerns raised by the resident doctors.

"We view this development with deep concern. Regrettably, this crisis was avoidable if all concerned stakeholders had been more proactive and responsive in addressing the legitimate concerns raised by the resident doctors," the NMA stated. The association emphasized that while strike action is a last resort, it often becomes unavoidable when dialogue fails to yield meaningful results.

The grievances of the resident doctors are multifaceted, including delayed implementation of revised professional allowances, unpaid promotion arrears, and inadequate welfare support for training. Specific demands include the urgent completion of a new Resident Doctors’ Quarters and Residency Training Centre, payment of specialist allowances, and the prompt conclusion and disbursement of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund. The doctors also seek improved security measures within the hospital premises.

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The issues that culminated in the warning strike include: ‎Immediate commencement, construction, and timely completion of the newly modernised Resident Doctors’ Quarters and Residency Training Centre at LASUTH. ‎Urgent conclusion and implementation of the revised Professional Allowance for doctors in Lagos State. ‎ ‎”Payment of Specialist Allowance to all eligible Senior Registrar I doctors at LASUTH. ‎Immediate payment of all outstanding advancement and promotion arrears owed to members. ‎Prompt conclusion, approval, and disbursement of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to all eligible resident doctors. ‎ “‎Payment of Teaching Allowance to all Registrars and House Officers at LASUTH. ‎Strengthening of security measures and protection for healthcare workers, patients, and health facilities across LASUTH and Lagos State.