Doctors under the umbrella of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have warned that it may shut down medical services nationwide if the Federal Government fails to address its demands before the expiration of its 21-day ultimatum on Wednesday, July 23.
NMA President, Prof Bala Audu, issued the warning in an interview on Sunday, stating that the association was fully prepared to take decisive action if necessary. He emphasised that the demands were essential to the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the welfare of medical professionals.
The ultimatum, issued on July 2, came in response to a controversial circular released by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service. The NMA described the circular as a breach of existing agreements and demanded its immediate withdrawal, among other conditions.
“We have made our position clear,” Prof Audu said. “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.”
He said the provisions contained in the circular were not mutually agreed upon and undermined the remuneration and welfare of doctors.
“We have rejected that circular outright,” he said. “We expect that any new directive affecting our members should be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed.”
Prof Audu revealed that the NMA had held discussions with top government officials, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate; Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako; and other key stakeholders. He noted that while there were positive engagements, further meetings were stalled due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari last week.
“The minister appreciated our concerns and addressed the issues raised. A follow-up meeting was planned for last week, but due to the former president’s death, it was postponed. We now expect another meeting with the NSIWC, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Health before the deadline,” he said.
With the deadline fast approaching, Prof Audu said the association could no longer afford delays.
“We expect that after the funeral ceremonies, government stakeholders will reconvene with us, hopefully by Monday. Otherwise, the 21-day ultimatum still stands. If the government fails to prioritise this matter, a strike may be inevitable.”
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