PREAMBLE: The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) held an Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting on Thursday, 19th December, 2013 at Parkview hotel, Abuja. The E-NEC was called to appraise the on-going warning strike action declared by the Nigerian Medical Association, and in fulfilment of the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the NMA and the government team.

The meeting was well attended by members from over 34 State branches of NMA and the Federal Capital Territory, and lasted for over eight (8) hours. 

RESOLUTIONS

Following exhaustive deliberations at the meeting, the National Executive Council resolved as follows:

ON-GOING WARNING STRIKE ACTION

The E-NEC received progress reports from the various State branches of NMA and the Affiliate bodies of NMA, and expressed satisfaction with the level and manner of conduct of the warning strike action.

With respect to the promises offered by officers of Government in a meeting held with the leadership of the NMA on Monday, 16th December, 2013, the National Executive Council expressed dissatisfaction with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached with the leadership of the NMA. NEC particularly observed that similar MoUs reached with the Association in the past were not adhered to by government side. The

NEC therefore called for concrete implementation of the contents of the MoU to enable her conduct an appropriate assessment of the commitment of government.

Accordingly, the NEC resolved to continue with the on-going warning strike action as previously planned by the Association, until more concrete efforts are made to meet the minimum demands of the NMA.

NEC also reaffirmed the earlier decision of the Association to limit the duration of the warning strike action in deference to the yuletide season and as a mark of the Association’s appreciation of the appeals of well-meaning Nigerians, but to commence a total strike action (if the issues are not satisfactorily resolved) on January 6, 2014.

APPRECIATION

NEC expresses her profound gratitude to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, for his genuine concern and appreciation of the Association’s challenges.

NEC also appreciates the efforts of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, CFR; Hon. Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, CON; the Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; the Chairman, House of Reps Committee on Health, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu; and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Alh. Bukar Goni Aji.

NEC appreciates the strong resolve and support of all Nigerian doctors as well as the participation of the various NMA State/FCT branches, Committee Chairmen and Affiliate bodies at the Emergency NEC meeting.

NEC is thankful to all well-meaning Nigerians and the media for their understanding, prayers and support.

NEC wishes all Nigerians a happy Christmas celebration.

Dr. Osahon Enabulele Dr. Akpufuoma L. Pemu

President Secretary-General