With the 21-day ultimatum it issued to the Federal Government set to expire on July 23, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has threatened to shut down medical services across the country if its demands are not met.
NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, confirmed this in an exclusive interview on Sunday, stating that the association is prepared to take decisive action should the government fail to respond adequately.
Prof. Audu emphasized that the NMA’s demands are essential for the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the welfare of medical professionals nationwide.
The ultimatum, issued on July 2, was in response to a controversial circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which proposed revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service. The association opposed the circular, arguing it violated previous agreements.
“We have made our position clear. The ultimatum expires on July 23, and if the Federal Government does not act, we may be compelled to embark on a nationwide strike,” Audu warned.
He explained that the circular includes provisions that were not mutually agreed upon and undermine doctors' welfare and remuneration.
“We categorically reject the circular. Any new policy affecting our members must result from mutual consultation, not unilateral imposition,” he said.
Prof. Audu revealed that the NMA has been engaging with government officials to avoid a crisis. The most recent meeting included the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako; the Permanent Secretary; Director of Hospital Services; and a representative from the Ministry of Labour. Affiliates of the NMA were also in attendance.
“The minister acknowledged our concerns and reviewed our list of demands. He proposed further dialogue, and a follow-up meeting was scheduled for last week. However, it was postponed due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari,” he explained.
According to him, the next round of discussions is expected to involve the NSIWC—the issuer of the disputed circular—the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health.
Audu stressed that time is running out: “Unless the next meeting happens within a few days, we may be left with no alternative but industrial action. We hope government officials will reconvene by Monday. If not, the ultimatum remains in effect.”
Meanwhile, the NMA branch in Katsina State also issued a strongly worded communiqué after its State Executive Council meeting on Saturday, condemning the circular.
The branch expressed “grave disappointment” and “unequivocal condemnation” of the NSIWC circular (SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646), dated June 27, 2025, and demanded its immediate withdrawal, along with fulfillment of all outstanding demands.
The communiqué, signed by NMA Katsina Chairman Dr. Muhammadu Sani and Secretary Dr. Yahya Salisu, warned that the branch could not guarantee uninterrupted health services if the issues are not addressed urgently.
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