The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has warned that it will embark on a nationwide strike from Thursday, 24th July 2025, should the Federal Government fail to address its outstanding demands.
The NMA President, Prof Bala Audu, issued the warning during a press briefing on Monday, noting that the 21-day ultimatum issued to the government earlier this month would expire on Wednesday, 23rd July.
According to him, the association’s demands are not motivated by personal interests, but are essential for the survival of the country’s healthcare system and the well-being of medical professionals nationwide.
“We have made our position clear. The ultimatum ends on July 23, and if the Federal Government does not address our demands, we may have no choice but to proceed with a strike,” he said.
At the centre of the disagreement is a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, which reviewed the allowances of medical and dental officers in the federal public service.
The NMA has rejected the circular, describing its content as unilateral and inconsistent with previously agreed terms.
“We have rejected that circular outright. We expect that any new directive affecting our members should be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed,” Prof Audu stated.
He further disclosed that the association had made efforts to engage relevant authorities in order to avert industrial action and forestall a crisis in the health sector.
“The last meeting happened two weeks ago and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate; the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako; the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Hospital Services, and the representative of Minister of Labour were at the meeting, and some affiliate of the NMA were present, and I was part of that meeting as well,” he said.
He, however, revealed that a follow-up meeting scheduled for last week could not be held due to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The NMA had, on 2nd July, issued a 21-day ultimatum following the release of the controversial circular, which it says violates existing agreements and undermines the remuneration and welfare of its members.
Whether the government will make a last-minute move to prevent the shutdown remains to be seen.
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