NMA warns of wider health crisis as LASUTH doctors’ strike enters second day

Resident doctors at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) have initiated a three-day warning strike, citing persistent, unaddressed welfare concerns. The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos branch, expressed deep concern, warning that the industrial action could trigger wider disruptions within the state's healthcare system if the issues remain unresolved.

The strike, now in its second day, follows a decision by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at LASUTH. According to reports, the doctors voted to withdraw services after repeated engagements and ultimatums failed to elicit a concrete response from the state government. The ARD president, Alaba Akirele, stated that the government had not adequately responded to their concerns.

Key demands from the striking doctors include the immediate resumption of construction for the Resident Doctors’ Quarters at LASUTH. They also seek the urgent implementation of a revised professional allowance structure for doctors in Lagos State and the payment of specialist allowances to eligible Senior Registrar doctors. The NMA Lagos Chairman, Ewonowo Sunday, described the situation as "deeply unfortunate but avoidable," attributing the breakdown in industrial harmony to prolonged delays in negotiations.

The NMA highlighted several critical issues at the heart of the dispute, such as delayed implementation of revised professional allowances, unpaid promotion arrears, and inadequate welfare support for medical trainees. Additionally, demands encompass the completion of the Resident Doctors’ Quarters and Residency Training Centre, payment of teaching allowances, and enhanced security measures for healthcare workers and patients.

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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.