Nigerian Medical Association Threatens Nationwide Strike as Ultimatum Nears End
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, threatening to halt medical services across the country if its demands are not met by the July 23 deadline. The ultimatum, set to expire on Tuesday, follows the NMA’s rejection of a circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) revising allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.
In an exclusive interview with our correspondent on Sunday, NMA President Prof Bala Audu emphasized the critical nature of the association’s demands, which he said are essential for the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the welfare of medical professionals. “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,” Prof Audu stated.
The NMA issued the 21-day ultimatum on July 2 in response to the NSIWC circular dated June 27, 2025, which the association claims violates prior agreements and undermines doctors’ remuneration and welfare. “We have rejected that circular outright. We expect any new directive affecting our members to be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed,” Prof Audu said.
Efforts to resolve the issue have included engagements with government officials, including a meeting two weeks ago attended by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, and other stakeholders. A follow-up meeting planned for last week was postponed due to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Prof Audu expressed hope that discussions would resume by Monday, involving the NSIWC, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health. “Unless the meeting is held within the next few days, we may be left with no alternative but industrial action,” he warned.
The Katsina State NMA branch echoed the national body’s stance, issuing a communique after its State Executive Council meeting on Saturday. Signed by Chairman Dr Muhammadu Sani and Secretary Dr Yahya Salisu, the communique condemned the NSIWC circular and demanded its immediate withdrawal, alongside the fulfillment of all NMA demands. The branch warned that failure to comply could lead to disruptions in health services.
With the deadline fast approaching, the NMA has urged the government to prioritize dialogue to avert a nationwide strike that could paralyze Nigeria’s healthcare system.
