Doctors blast FG over imposed salary adjustments, threaten strike

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has warned it may suspend all medical services across the country if the Federal Government fails to address its demands before the expiration of its 21-day ultimatum.

President of the association, Prof. Bala Audu, disclosed this during an interview with journalists on Sunday, stressing that the demands were vital for the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the well-being of medical professionals.

The ultimatum, issued on July 2, was in response to a circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission concerning revised allowances for medical and dental officers in federal service.

The NMA described the document as a breach of previously reached agreements and rejected its contents.

Prof. Audu said the ultimatum would end on July 23, and unless the government meets the demands, a strike may be unavoidable.

“We have made our position clear… If the Federal Government does not address our demands, we may have no choice but to proceed with a strike,” he stated.

He criticised the circular for introducing provisions not mutually agreed upon and called it an imposition.

“We expect that any new directive affecting our members should be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed,” he added.

Prof. Audu also revealed that discussions had been ongoing with government officials, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako; and representatives from the Ministry of Labour, among others.

However, a follow-up meeting could not hold due to the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

He noted that further talks are expected with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health, but warned that time was running out. “Unless the meeting is held soon, we may be left with no alternative but industrial action,” he warned.

Meanwhile, the Katsina State chapter of the NMA has also rejected the circular.

In a communiqué released after its State Executive Council meeting on Saturday, the branch expressed “grave disappointment” and condemned the June 27 circular.

Read Also: Ex-Nigerian coach Sunday Oliseh loses brother to Malaria

The statement, signed by its Chairman, Dr. Muhammadu Sani, and Secretary, Dr. Yahya Salisu, called for the urgent withdrawal of the circular and full implementation of the association’s demands.

The association warned that continued delay could lead to a breakdown in health services across the country.