LASUTH doctors’ strike threatens Lagos healthcare system, NMA warns

The Nigerian Medical Association, Lagos State branch, has expressed concern over the ongoing three-day warning strike by resident doctors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital.

The NMA warned that the industrial action could escalate into a wider healthcare disruption if urgent steps are not taken.

The strike, embarked upon by the Association of Resident Doctors, LASUTH, followed what the doctors described as the failure of the Lagos State Government and relevant authorities to address long-standing welfare issues affecting medical personnel in the hospital.

In a statement issued by the NMA Lagos Chairman, Dr. Ewonowo Sunday, on Thursday, the association described the development as “deeply unfortunate but avoidable,” blaming prolonged delays in negotiations for the breakdown in industrial harmony

“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 statement read.

While acknowledging that strike action remains a last resort, the NMA said it often becomes inevitable when sustained dialogue fails to produce meaningful results.

According to the association, the grievances of resident doctors at LASUTH include delayed implementation of revised professional allowances, unpaid promotion arrears and inadequate welfare support for training doctors.