Posted on: Wed 23-07-2025

 

In a strong show of disapproval, the Abia State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has vehemently rejected a circular issued by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding the review of allowances for doctors and dentists in federal service. The association condemned the move as a gross violation of previously negotiated agreements and a direct affront to the principles of collective bargaining.

This controversial circular, issued by the NSIWC, has ignited a wave of dissatisfaction across the medical community. At the national level, the NMA has already responded with a firm 21 day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the circular or face a potential industrial action that could paralyze the country’s already fragile healthcare system.

Speaking during a press briefing in Umuahia, Dr. Ezuruike Ezinwa, Chairman of the Abia State NMA, voiced his deep disappointment over what he described as a "regrettable and ill-conceived" policy. He noted that in attempting to address the consequential adjustments in the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), the NSIWC had instead exacerbated the longstanding grievances of the few doctors and dentists who have remained in Nigeria amidst a worsening wave of medical brain drain.

“It is disheartening that at a time when Nigeria faces critical developmental challenges, the welfare of doctors is still treated as an afterthought,” Dr. Ezinwa lamented. “The NSIWC, which should be guided by sound economic principles and a commitment to national progress, has chosen to act in disregard of prior agreements and professional dignity.”

The Abia NMA has declared its full and unequivocal support for the position of the national body, led by Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu. Dr. Ezinwa emphasized that this latest development is not only a breach of trust but a dangerous undermining of the healthcare workforce. In his words, “Such disregard for due process and the terms of the 2001, 2009, and 2014 Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) represents a betrayal of democratic governance and a blatant insult to the medical profession.”

The association is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the circular dated June 27, 2025, which attempts to unilaterally review allowances for medical and dental officers. Furthermore, they call for a fresh circular that accurately reflects the spirit and letter of past agreements.

Among the 18-point demands championed by the NMA, both nationally and in Abia State, are:

• Immediate withdrawal of the controversial circular;
• Full implementation of consequential adjustments in line with previous CBAs;
• Correction of the relativity imbalance between CONMESS and CONHESS;
• Compliance with agreed professional allowances, especially for call duties;
• Settlement of all outstanding arrears, including the 25%/35% CONMESS, clinical duty, and accoutrement allowances;
• Immediate payment and review of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF);
• Urgent convocation of CBA negotiations to revise CONMESS in accordance with prevailing economic conditions.

Dr. Ezinwa concluded with a call to senior members of the profession to speak out boldly, warning that silence in the face of such policy missteps would only embolden further injustice. The Abia NMA also directed its members to remain on alert for further directives, signaling the possibility of coordinated industrial action if their concerns remain unaddressed.

As the nation grapples with the effects of the “Japa” syndrome and the growing shortage of medical personnel, the treatment of doctors both in policy and in practice will be a key determinant of Nigeria’s healthcare future. The Abia NMA’s stand is not merely a rejection of a circular but a call for dignity, fairness, and a healthcare system that truly values its frontline workers.

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