Nigerian doctors threaten nationwide strike

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced plans to embark on a nationwide strike beginning Thursday, July 25, if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands before the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum.

The ultimatum, issued on July 2, came in response to a circular from 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, accusing the commission of violating previous agreements and acting without proper consultation.

NMA President, Professor Bala Audu, in an interview on Sunday, stressed that the welfare of doctors and the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system were at stake. He warned that the association was prepared to act if the government did not respond in time.

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“We have made our position clear. If the Federal Government does not address our demands by July 23, we may have no choice but to proceed with a strike,” Audu said.

According to him, the circular in question includes provisions that were not agreed upon by both parties, undermining doctors’ remuneration and welfare.

He emphasized that any policy affecting medical professionals should be the result of mutual agreement, not unilateral decisions.

Efforts to resolve the dispute have included meetings between NMA officials and top government stakeholders, including Health Minister Muhammad Pate, Minister of State for Health Iziaq Salako, and representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Finance.

However, a key follow-up meeting scheduled for last week was postponed due to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Audu expressed concern that the window for resolution was closing fast.

“If the next meeting doesn’t happen soon, and there’s no concrete action, the strike may become inevitable,” he warned.

In Katsina State, the NMA branch issued a communique following a weekend meeting, expressing strong opposition to the NSIWC circular.

Signed by the branch chairman, Dr. Muhammadu Sani, and secretary, Dr. Yahya Salisu, the statement demanded the immediate withdrawal of the circular and warned of potential disruption of health services if the government fails to act.

With the deadline only days away, tension is rising across the health sector as doctors prepare for possible industrial action.