Opinion: Nigeria Must Stop Waiting for Doctors to Threaten Strikes Before Taking Action

Every time talks of a doctors' strike emerge, millions of Nigerians become anxious.

Patients scheduled for surgeries begin to worry. Families with loved ones in hospitals fear delays in treatment. Those living with chronic illnesses wonder whether they will still be able to receive the care they need.

Over the years, Nigeria has developed a pattern of waiting until industrial action is imminent before meaningful negotiations begin. This reactive approach creates uncertainty for healthcare workers and leaves patients caught in the middle.

Doctors often raise concerns about salaries, working conditions, hospital equipment, and the shortage of medical personnel. On the other hand, governments point to limited resources, competing priorities, and ongoing reforms. Both sides have legitimate concerns, but ordinary Nigerians pay the highest price whenever discussions break down.

The country has also lost thousands of highly skilled doctors to migration. Better pay, safer working conditions, and greater career opportunities abroad continue to attract Nigerian medical professionals. As more doctors leave, those who remain face heavier workloads and increasing pressure.

Healthcare should not become a bargaining chip that is only discussed during periods of crisis.

The Federal Government, state governments, healthcare unions, and professional bodies need to establish a system of regular dialogue throughout the year. Many disputes could be resolved early if communication remained open instead of beginning only when strike notices are issued.

At the same time, doctors also have an important responsibility. While industrial action is a recognised labour right, every effort should be made to minimise the impact on emergency and life-saving services whenever disagreements arise.

Nigeria deserves a healthcare system where patients do not have to fear that medical services could be disrupted at any moment.

Rather than celebrating last-minute agreements or worrying about the next strike, the country should focus on building a system that values healthcare workers, invests in hospitals, and places patients at the centre of every decision.

That is the conversation Nigeria needs—not only when a strike is looming, but every single day.