The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has warned that they will initiate a nationwide strike if their abducted colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, is not released by August 26. NARD President, Dr. Dele Abdullahi, made this announcement during a press briefing in Abuja, expressing the association's frustration with the government's inaction regarding the abduction.

Dr. Ganiyat, a registrar at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, was kidnapped on December 27, 2023, along with her husband and nephew. Although her husband was released in March, Dr. Ganiyat and her nephew remain in captivity.

Abdullahi explained that NARD had promptly informed all relevant security agencies and government bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association and the Ministries of Health and Labour, urging them to act swiftly for her rescue. Despite these efforts, there has been little progress.

Abdullahi emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of healthcare workers in Nigeria, especially given the critical need for their presence in the country. He noted that the association has repeatedly reached out to security agencies and government officials but has yet to engage directly with them about the situation.

NARD plans to hold a national press conference and organize protests at tertiary hospitals across the country to demand Dr. Ganiyat's release. The association has also stated that they will begin industrial action on August 26 if she is not freed by that date.

While acknowledging the efforts of concerned Nigerians and security forces, NARD urged the government to take more decisive action to secure Dr. Ganiyat’s release. Abdullahi expressed dismay that a healthcare provider has been held captive for over seven months without any clear plan for her rescue.