Lagos Government Urges Doctors to Suspend Strike, Pledges Swift Resolution of Salary Dispute

The Lagos State Government has made a public appeal to the Medical Guild to call off its planned three-day warning strike, reassuring doctors and residents that steps are being taken to address their grievances, particularly the controversial salary deductions that have triggered the dispute.

The strike, led by the Medical Guild, a body representing medical and dental practitioners in the state’s public health sector, commenced today, Monday, July 28, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. and is scheduled to last until Thursday, July 31. The doctors cited “illegal and disrespectful” deductions from their salaries as the primary cause of the industrial action.

In a statement issued by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the government acknowledged the concerns raised during a press conference organized by the Medical Guild on Saturday, July 26. The government emphasized its commitment to resolving the matter through dialogue and swift administrative action.

“The Lagos State Government wishes to assure the general public that all grievances of the doctors are currently being looked into with utmost sincerity and urgency,” the statement read. “Negotiations and engagements with the Medical Guild are ongoing.”

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This warning strike marks a rare development for the state’s health ministry, which has in recent years maintained relative industrial peace within the health sector. Authorities expressed concern over the timing of the strike, highlighting its potential impact on over 20 million residents who depend on public healthcare facilities.

To address the unfolding crisis, a Conciliation Committee was previously established, comprising representatives from both the Medical Guild and government officials. The panel has already held several meetings, and the Ministry of Health confirmed that documents submitted by the union are currently under review in accordance with the state’s existing financial policies and administrative frameworks.

“We value the critical role our healthcare professionals play in delivering quality and timely health services to residents of Lagos State,” the statement continued. “We urge the Medical Guild to maintain the path of dialogue while we strive to reach a peaceful and just resolution.”

While government officials emphasized the importance of resolving the matter without further escalation, they also reassured the public that contingency measures are being implemented to minimize service disruptions across hospitals and clinics. This includes mobilizing non-striking personnel and reassigning staff to critical areas to ensure continued delivery of essential medical services during the strike period.

The Ministry of Health also reiterated the administration’s commitment to healthcare workers’ welfare, pointing to various reforms and incentive schemes initiated since Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assumed office.

According to the Ministry, Governor Sanwo-Olu remains deeply invested in creating a conducive working environment for all medical personnel in Lagos. His administration is said to be working tirelessly to ensure industrial harmony, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare.

“The Governor remains committed to promoting the welfare of healthcare workers across the state,” the Ministry affirmed. “We are determined to resolve this issue through meaningful dialogue that respects the interests of all stakeholders, especially our dedicated doctors.”

In a direct message to the Medical Guild, the Ministry urged union leaders to reconsider their strike decision and give ongoing discussions the opportunity to succeed. Officials argued that a collaborative approach remains the best path toward achieving long-term solutions that benefit both medical professionals and the wider public.

Meanwhile, residents have been advised to remain patient and understanding during this challenging period. The government expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation and promised that efforts are underway to restore full services as quickly as possible.

While the strike is expected to send ripples through Lagos’ vast public health system, the government’s proactive engagement with the Medical Guild may yet lead to a breakthrough before the strike period concludes. For now, the health and welfare of Lagosians hang in the balance, with hopes pinned on dialogue and diplomacy.