The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned resident doctors in Abuja against resorting to industrial action. The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has intermittently gone on strike due to the government's failure to meet their demands, including the immediate payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), an upward review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), and settling salary arrears since 2015.

The doctors are also advocating for significant recruitment of clinical staff, the elimination of bureaucratic hurdles for prompt replacement of departing doctors and nurses, and an immediate review of hazard allowances by all state governments and private tertiary health institutions involved in residency training.

Addressing resident doctors in Abuja, Wike acknowledged their right to make recommendations, which the Federal Government will consider. However, he expressed discontent with the prospect of industrial action, stating that he stands to save money when doctors go on strike. Wike asserted that he would not pay doctors who participate in strikes and affirmed his willingness to confront them legally.

He emphasized, “Make your recommendations, and we will evaluate them. Don’t use a strike as a threat because I find it unfavorable. Even if you return from a strike, I won’t compensate you; we will settle it in court. It's not about promises but the practical reality; I don’t believe in mere theory.”