Niger doctors strike threat issued as medics demand rescue of abducted colleague, warning of health sector shutdown within 72 hours

The Niger State chapter of the National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners on Monday issued a stark ultimatum to the state government, warning of imminent industrial action if abducted doctor Tony Eghagagara is not rescued within 72 hours.

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The Niger doctors strike threat follows the reported abduction of Tony Eghagagara, Head of Medical Services at New Bussa General Hospital in Borgu Local Government Area, who was taken from a private clinic in Wawa town on 22 April 2026.

In a communiqué signed by Chairman Mustapha Aliyu and General Secretary Musa Alhaji-Shehu after an emergency meeting, the association described the situation as a “systemic failure” to protect healthcare workers.

The statement warned that failure to secure Tony Eghagagara’s release would trigger a complete shutdown of health services across the state, a decisive move that could disrupt care for thousands of residents.

“The Congress views with grave concern and mounting frustration the worsening insecurity and the targeted victimisation of healthcare workers,” the communiqué said, highlighting a pattern of attacks on medical personnel.

The association cited previous incidents, including the abduction of a doctor in Lapai Local Government Area and assaults on hospital facilities, as well as the killing of a nurse in Kagara, as evidence of escalating danger in the sector.

Beyond the immediate demand for Tony Eghagagara’s rescue, the doctors called for enhanced protection measures, including dedicated security for health workers in high-risk locations and support for staff during duty hours.

The group also urged the government to provide comprehensive welfare support to the abducted doctor’s family, covering financial and logistical needs.

The Niger doctors strike threat underscores deepening anxiety within the medical community, as practitioners warn that continued inaction could further erode already strained healthcare services.