The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has warned that it will embark on a nationwide strike starting Thursday, July 25, if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands before the expiration of the 21-day ultimatum it issued earlier this month.
NMA President, Professor Bala Audu, confirmed the looming industrial action in an exclusive interview, stating that the association is prepared to suspend medical services nationwide if the government does not act promptly.
He emphasized that the association’s demands are vital to preserving Nigeria’s healthcare system and protecting the welfare of medical professionals.
The ultimatum, issued on July 2, was in response to a controversial circular released by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which outlined revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.
The NMA rejected the circular, claiming it violated previously established agreements and failed to reflect a consultative process.
“We have made our position clear. The ultimatum ends on July 23, and if the Federal Government does not address our demands, we may have no choice but to proceed with a strike,” Audu warned.
He described the NSIWC circular as “obnoxious” and unilaterally imposed, saying it undermines the remuneration structure for doctors.
“We expect that any new directive affecting our members should be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed,” he added.
The NMA has been in discussions with federal officials in an attempt to avert the crisis. According to Prof. Audu, a recent meeting included key stakeholders such as the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Pate; the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako; and representatives from the Ministry of Labour, the NSIWC, and the Ministry of Finance. However, a follow-up meeting scheduled for last week was postponed due to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The NMA president expressed concern that time is running out, stating that if another meeting is not held early this week, the association will be forced to act.
“If the government fails to prioritise this matter, a strike may be inevitable,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State branch of the NMA echoed the national body’s stance in a communique released after its State Executive Council meeting on Saturday.
The branch condemned the NSIWC circular and demanded its immediate withdrawal, warning that health services in the state could be disrupted if their demands are ignored.
The communique was signed by the branch Chairman, Dr. Muhammadu Sani, and Secretary, Dr. Yahya Salisu.
As the deadline looms, the health sector faces the threat of significant disruption if a resolution is not reached.
