The Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Hospitals in Nigeria (CCMDFTH) has appealed to health sector unions to embrace dialogue and reconsider ongoing and planned industrial actions, warning that prolonged strikes pose grave risks to patients and the nation’s healthcare system.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a press statement issued after its 112th Regular Meeting and Annual General Meeting held in December 2025 at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Keffi, the Committee expressed deep concern over the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the planned resumption of industrial action by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) from January 12, 2026.
The Committee, which comprises the Chief Executive Officers of federal teaching hospitals, medical centres and specialist hospitals nationwide, said it recognises the legitimate welfare concerns and professional aspirations of health workers but stressed that industrial harmony remains critical to sustaining healthcare delivery.
According to the Committee, disruptions in services at federal tertiary hospitals disproportionately affect patients who depend on specialised care and often have no viable alternatives. It warned that delays in treatment, particularly for critically ill patients, could result in irreversible consequences.
“While negotiations and advocacy are essential components of labour relations, prolonged industrial action in tertiary health institutions imposes severe hardship on patients and undermines public confidence in the health system,” the statement said.
The CCMDFTH noted that despite efforts by hospital managements to minimise service disruptions, no contingency measures can fully replace the collective expertise and presence of healthcare professionals.
The Committee therefore urged JOHESU to suspend its ongoing strike and called on NARD to reconsider its planned resumption of industrial action to allow ongoing engagements to yield results. It also appealed to all stakeholders to prioritise sustained dialogue, mutual trust and good-faith negotiations in resolving outstanding issues.
Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, the Committee said it remains willing to support all genuine efforts aimed at fostering industrial peace and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
“We firmly believe that with patience, empathy and shared responsibility, these issues can be resolved without further compromising lives or national stability,” the statement concluded.
