The dismissal of several consultant doctors by the National Hospital, Abuja, has ignited a dispute with the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), FCT chapter, over alleged procedural irregularities.
The NMA contends that the affected doctors, who were serving as locum consultants temporary positions often taken post-residency were let go suddenly and without adequate explanation. The association labeled the action as unfair and potentially demoralizing to healthcare practitioners.
In response, the hospital management clarified that the doctors were not permanent employees and that their contracts had naturally expired. An official noted that the decision was a standard administrative adjustment, affecting only temporary staff and leaving full-time consultants untouched.
Nevertheless, the NMA insists the disengagement process lacked openness and equity, calling on the hospital to reassess its methods and uphold respect for medical staff.
This conflict has raised broader concerns within the medical sector, with experts cautioning that lingering tensions could jeopardize healthcare delivery in the capital if not resolved promptly.
