Source: Fortune Eromonsele
Mr Adamu explained that the matter may stem from a misunderstanding regarding consultants who had completed their residency training and were subsequently engaged on a temporary, locum basis
The National Hospital, Abuja, has denied allegations of dismissing three doctors from its workforce, countering claims that prompted a 14-day strike ultimatum by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
In a statement released Saturday, Maijamaa Adamu, Head of Information and Protocol Management, said the hospital had not dismissed any doctors or consultants, stressing that the facility remains committed to supporting its staff and ensuring continuous medical service.
The Locum Misunderstanding
Adamu explained that the confusion appears to stem from the status of doctors previously engaged on locum (temporary) terms after completing their residency programs. These consultants were not on permanent contracts but were retained on a short-term, renewable six-month basis—a practice commonly used in federal hospitals awaiting official recruitment approvals.
“This does not constitute formal employment,” he added. “Locum consultants are often considered when permanent slots become available.”
In late 2023, the hospital received federal approval to recruit 83 staff, including 10 consultants. All consultant positions were filled by existing locum doctors, reinforcing the management’s commitment to internal capacity-building.
Strike Threat Looms Over Alleged “Victimisation”
Despite these clarifications, the FCT NMA maintains that three affected doctors were unfairly disengaged after three years of casual engagement. In a memo dated June 13, the association described the move as “selective victimisation” and warned that doctors at the hospital will embark on an indefinite strike from June 30 if the issue is not resolved.
The NMA stated that such action undermines morale and contradicts principles of fairness in a health sector already facing severe human resource shortages.
“The disengagement without clear explanation is demoralising,” the memo read. “This strike is our last resort to protect members’ welfare.”
Potential Fallout of Strike Action
Should the strike proceed, healthcare services in Abuja and beyond may face significant disruptions. The National Hospital is a premier referral center in Nigeria, handling:
- Hundreds of daily outpatient consultations
- Life-saving surgical operations
- Complex critical care cases
A strike would likely cause treatment delays, surgery cancellations, and overwhelming patient loads at nearby facilities.
Management Reiterates Commitment to Due Process
Mr. Adamu concluded that the hospital is operating within its mandate and recruitment limitations, emphasizing that final employment decisions rest with the federal authorities, not hospital administrators.
“The decision to retain or disengage is based on operational need and availability of federal approvals. We act in good faith and with the system’s best interest in mind.”
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