By Ayomide Otitoju
Healthcare services at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) have remained disrupted as the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) continues its industrial action, which entered its eighth day on Monday.
The strike, embarked upon in line with a directive from the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), followed unsuccessful efforts to resolve welfare-related concerns with the hospital management.
Addressing journalists on Monday, the ARD highlighted two major demands: the immediate completion of the Resident Doctors’ Quarters and the restoration of call duty meals.
The association said resident doctors have been unable to access their accommodation for more than 18 months due to an incomplete renovation project.
It added that many doctors work shifts exceeding 24 hours, including overnight duties handling critical emergencies, and have been forced to sleep in cars, hospital lounges and other unsuitable locations while continuing to provide healthcare services.
The ARD called on the Federal Government to urgently release funds required for the completion of the renovation work, describing the situation as a threat to doctors’ welfare, safety and well-being.
The doctors also protested the withdrawal of call duty meals, arguing that the provision is essential for medical personnel who remain on duty for extended periods and cannot leave their posts to get food.
According to the association, call duty meals are not a privilege but a necessary welfare support system that helps ensure uninterrupted patient care, noting that similar arrangements exist in other federal tertiary healthcare institutions.
The ARD appealed to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate; the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, and other stakeholders to intervene in the dispute.
The association warned that healthcare disruptions at LUTH may continue unless urgent steps are taken to address the concerns raised.
It, however, expressed commitment to dialogue and a quick resolution, stressing that doctors remain willing to return to providing care once basic working conditions are restored.
