Lagos Government begs as doctors embark on strike

The Lagos State Government has appealed to striking medical doctors under its employment to call off their ongoing three-day warning strike, which began on Monday, July 28, 2025.

In a statement issued by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the government acknowledged the grievances raised by the Medical Guild and assured that negotiations are in progress to address the concerns.

“The Lagos State Government remains committed to the welfare, motivation, and productivity of all healthcare workers. All grievances are being looked into with utmost sincerity and urgency,” the statement read.

The Medical Guild, the body representing state-employed doctors, declared the warning strike on July 26, citing unresolved salary issues and what it described as illegal deductions made by the Lagos State Treasury Office.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Guild’s secretariat, Chairman Dr. Japhet Olugbogi said the industrial action became inevitable after failed efforts at resolving the matter through dialogue. He explained that the crisis began in April when salary deductions were made without explanation. Although the deductions were reversed after protests, they resumed again in July.

The Guild’s key demands include:

Immediate reversal of the July salary deductions

Full payment of 12-month revised CONMESS arrears owed to honorary consultants at LASUTH

Dr. Olugbogi described the strike as a last resort following “spirited intervention and strategic engagement” that failed to yield results.

In response, the state government reiterated its openness to continued dialogue and revealed that a conciliation committee, comprising representatives from both sides, had already been formed to review relevant documents in line with state fiscal policy.

“As a responsible government, we value the critical role our healthcare professionals play in delivering quality and timely health services to the over 20 million residents of Lagos State,” the statement added.

While commending residents for their patience, the government disclosed that contingency plans have been activated to cushion the effect of the strike on public health services.

The strike is expected to last until Wednesday, July 30.