President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Orders Urgent End to Doctors’ Strike — Says Nigerians Deserve Better Care

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate resolution of the ongoing strike by resident doctors across Nigeria, emphasizing that the situation poses a serious threat to the nation’s healthcare delivery system. Tinubu gave the directive during a high-level meeting with the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and key officials of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) at the State House in Abuja.

Tinubu described the doctors’ strike as “unacceptable and inhumane,” stressing that Nigerians must not be made to suffer unduly due to administrative or financial disagreements. He directed the Ministry of Health to engage the striking doctors and their representatives in continuous dialogue until a sustainable resolution is achieved. According to him, the wellbeing of citizens remains a top priority of his administration, and no effort will be spared in ensuring that hospitals resume full operation immediately.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving working conditions for medical professionals. He noted that the Federal Government has already begun implementing reforms in the health sector, including salary adjustments, hazard allowances, and investment in medical infrastructure. “We cannot allow our hospitals to remain empty while lives are at risk,” he said, appealing to doctors to return to their duties in the spirit of patriotism and compassion.

Tinubu Promises Improved Welfare and Working Conditions

Tinubu further assured the medical community that his government is actively addressing long-standing grievances that have contributed to repeated strikes. He acknowledged the difficult working environment many health workers face, including inadequate facilities, equipment shortages, and poor remuneration. The President promised that the forthcoming Health Sector Renewal Programme will comprehensively tackle these challenges.

Tinubu stated that a healthy population is the foundation of economic growth, and therefore, investment in healthcare is not a luxury but a necessity. He also directed the Budget Office and the Ministry of Finance to ensure that funds earmarked for doctors’ welfare and hospital development are released without delay. “We must build a healthcare system that rewards hard work, not one that drives professionals out of the country,” he said.

Tinubu called on both federal and state governments to collaborate in creating an environment where doctors can thrive. He also expressed concern about the high rate of medical brain drain and pledged to make Nigeria attractive again for healthcare professionals. The President said his administration’s target is to achieve universal access to affordable healthcare before the end of his tenure.

Tinubu Appeals to Doctors to Resume Work in National Interest

Tinubu appealed to the striking doctors to suspend their industrial action in the interest of the nation and patients in critical condition. He emphasized that dialogue, not confrontation, remains the most effective way to resolve disputes. “Our doors are open for honest engagement,” he said. “We must protect the sanctity of human life, and I am confident that together, we can find a common ground.”

Tinubu also directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and the Chief of Staff to monitor the negotiation process and ensure that resolutions are implemented swiftly. He assured Nigerians that his administration would not rest until normalcy returns to public hospitals. The President stated that his goal is to restore confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system and reduce the number of citizens seeking medical treatment abroad.

Tinubu concluded by calling on all stakeholders — including the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), the NMA, and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) — to work in unity for the sake of national progress. “We can only achieve the Nigeria of our dreams when we put the people first,” he said, reiterating his administration’s “Renewed Hope” commitment to every citizen’s wellbeing.