The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has temporarily suspended its planned strike, giving the federal government until Saturday to meet its demands and avert disruption in the health sector.
The NMA had earlier issued a 21-day ultimatum on July 2, threatening industrial action in response to a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
The circular, which outlined revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service, was rejected by the association for allegedly violating existing agreements.
The ultimatum expired on Wednesday, July 23. However, the contentious circular has now been suspended to allow for further dialogue.
In a bid to resolve the impasse, the federal government held high-level meetings with NMA representatives on Tuesday and Wednesday in Abuja.
The meetings involved key government institutions, including the Federal Ministries of Health and Labour, the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, the Office of the Head of Civil Service, and the NSIWC.
Speaking after the Wednesday meeting, NMA President Prof. Bala Audu confirmed that there would be no strike between now and Saturday. He noted that negotiations are progressing positively and that another meeting is scheduled for today (Thursday).
“So far, so good. We are making progress and both sides are satisfied. Discussions continue tomorrow. There will be no strike until Saturday.
“After that, anything can happen—but most likely, we’ll see improved outcomes,” he said.
The association’s final decision is expected after Saturday, depending on the outcome of ongoing negotiations.
