Posted on: Mon 21-07-2025

As the deadline for its 21-day ultimatum approaches, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a final notice to the Federal Government: meet our demands or face a nationwide shutdown of medical services.

The warning stems from a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on June 27, which attempts to revise allowances for medical and dental officers. The NMA has rejected the directive outright, calling it a violation of prior agreements and an affront to the welfare of healthcare workers.

NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, emphasized that the association is prepared to take decisive action if the government fails to respond by the deadline of Tuesday, July 23. “Any directive affecting our members must come through dialogue, not imposition,” he stated.

Talks with top officials, including the Coordinating Minister of Health Prof. Muhammad Pate and Minister of State for Health Iziaq Salako, were initiated but later postponed due to national mourning following the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. A reconvening of discussions is expected early this week — but the NMA says delay is no longer acceptable.

The Katsina State branch of the NMA echoed national frustration, releasing a communique that describes the NSIWC circular as “obnoxious” and calling for its immediate withdrawal. Their warning: if the government remains unresponsive, the disruption of health services is imminent.

NMA’s demands include fair remuneration, better working conditions, and respect for negotiated agreements — issues central to sustaining Nigeria’s fragile healthcare infrastructure. The next few days will determine whether the government engages meaningfully or risks paralyzing medical care across the nation. 

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