The Federal Government, led by President Tinubu, is calling on the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to end their seven-day warning strike. The strike, which began to push for the release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a doctor from Kaduna who was kidnapped in December 2023, has now reached its seventh day. Dr. Popoola has been held captive for around nine months, and the doctors are demanding swift action for her safe return.

During a visit to the National Eye Centre in Kaduna on Thursday, August 29, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made an appeal to the doctors to end their strike. He reassured the medical community that the government is doing all it can to secure the release of Dr. Popoola.

Dr. Alausa emphasized that both the Federal Government and security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure her safety. He noted that the kidnappers frequently change their demands, complicating negotiations, but he assured that efforts are ongoing to bring her back safely.

He said;

“We are on top of the matter and have been on talking terms with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, regarding the issue.

“I have spoken with the Commissioner of Police, and everyone is working hard to see that she is released.”

”We don’t believe this warning strike will do anything. All hands are on deck to secure her release.

”For the past two days, we know she is alive, and that’s good news for us as the security is working hard to bring her back alive,” he said.

“I appeal to you to call off the strike and let’s keep praying that she comes back home in peace,” the minister passionately appealed.

The government is urging the doctors to consider the impact of the strike on healthcare delivery and to return to work while the authorities continue their rescue efforts.