NIGERIA: FMC Abuja Appoints New Accident, Emergency Unit Head Following Viral Video

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abuja has appointed a new Head of its Accident and Emergency (A\&E) Unit following the conclusion of an investigation into a viral video that sparked nationwide outrage over the conduct of its staff.

The video, which circulated widely on Facebook on June 6, showed a nurse at the FMC’s A\&E unit refusing to assist in transferring an accident victim into the hospital, claiming it was not her duty and that there were no gloves available.

Recall African Culture TV reported that the incident drew sharp criticism from Nigerians who described the staff’s attitude as nonchalant and unprofessional.

The man who recorded the footage had angrily challenged the nurse and other staff members, eventually getting help after several minutes of delay. FMC Abuja had at the time issued a preliminary statement promising a thorough probe.

In a formal update released on June 30, the Medical Director of FMC Abuja, Prof. Saad Ahmed, announced the findings of the investigative panel constituted to look into the incident, as well as decisive steps taken by the hospital management.

According to the report, the three accident victims featured in the video were promptly treated and discharged in stable condition the same day. The treatment administered was deemed adequate.

The panel also found that the A\&E unit had sufficient medical consumables, including gloves, at the time of the incident—contradicting earlier claims made in the viral video.

To reinforce accountability and professional standards, several staff members who were on duty during the incident have now been referred to the Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee in accordance with the Public Service Rules.

The hospital management has also appointed a new head for the A\&E unit to spearhead comprehensive reforms. These reforms are aimed at improving trauma response, strengthening staff preparedness, and offering advanced training for future leaders in emergency medicine.

In addition, FMC Abuja has entered into collaborative partnerships with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and the Medical Association of Nigerians Across Great Britain (MANSAG) to adopt global best practices and innovative solutions to upgrade emergency services.

The hospital reiterated its commitment to transparency and patient-centred care, urging members of the public to use official feedback and complaint channels, which are displayed across the hospital premises, for swift attention and resolution of concerns.

It stressed that constructive feedback would help improve service delivery while safeguarding healthcare workers from public harassment.

“We acknowledge the concerns this incident raised, and we assure you that the quality service we are known for will be sustained and improved upon,” Prof. Ahmed said.

This development marks a significant response to public outcry and serves as a reminder of the critical importance of professionalism, empathy, and efficiency in emergency healthcare delivery.