Doctors to FG: Address our demands or risk industrial action

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has put its planned nationwide strike on hold, giving the federal government until Saturday to address its demands or risk industrial action.

The strike, initially scheduled to begin on Thursday, was in protest against a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which introduced revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.

The NMA rejected the circular, saying it breached previous agreements.

Following a 21-day ultimatum that expired on Wednesday, July 23, the federal government suspended the controversial circular and invited the NMA for further negotiations.

High-level meetings were held on Tuesday and Wednesday in Abuja between the NMA and representatives from the Federal Ministries of Health, Labour, and Budget and National Planning, as well as the Office of the Accountant General, the Head of Civil Service, and the NSIWC.

Speaking after Wednesday’s meeting, NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, said that strike action had been put on hold until Saturday, as talks were progressing positively.

“So far, discussions have been fruitful.

“Both sides are satisfied with the progress, and another meeting is scheduled for Thursday,” he said.

“From now until Saturday, there will be no strike.

“What happens after that depends on how the negotiations unfold—but we’re hopeful for a positive resolution.”

The NMA said it remains committed to improving healthcare delivery and expects the government to fulfill its part of the agreement to avoid disruption of medical services.