The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has suspended its strike and has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet its long-standing demands or face a total and indefinite nationwide strike.
In a communiqué made available to journalists on Monday, jointly signed by Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu, the NMA President and Secretary General, Dr. Benjamin Egbo, the Association condemned what it described as the Federal Government’s persistent neglect of doctors’ welfare and failure to honour previously signed agreements.
The communique reads, “Following extensive deliberations at the Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held in Abuja on Saturday, July 26, 2025, the Nigerian Medical Association hereby issues a 21-day notice of a total and indefinite strike effective from July 27, 2025.”
According to the NMA, the EDM was convened to address the Federal Government’s failure to pay the seven-month arrears of the recently adjusted 25% and 35% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), as well as the suspension rather than withdrawal of a controversial circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
“Doctors across the country have continued to work under extremely difficult conditions, yet the government has not honoured its obligations. This continued disregard has become unbearable,”the communiqué stated.
The Association expressed displeasure with the non-implementation of key components of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached with government agencies, and the failure to act on any of its 19 submitted demands.
“It’s unacceptable that not a single one of our demands has been comprehensively addressed. The government must show seriousness in its dealings with Nigerian doctors,” said Dr. Egbo, the NMA Secretary General.
The NMA warned that the persistent neglect of Nigeria’s health system, coupled with the poor treatment of healthcare workers, is worsening the country’s already fragile health indices and driving the mass exodus of medical professionals.
“The current attitude of the government is not only encouraging brain drain but is also pushing the country’s healthcare system toward collapse”
The Association condemned the government’s growing dependence on medical tourism while failing to invest in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure and the welfare of local professionals.
“When those in authority seek medical care abroad, it underscores the failure of leadership and shows clear disregard for the health sector they swore to improve,” the communiqué noted.
The Association outlined the following resolutions at the conclusion of the Emergency Delegates Meeting: Strike Notice: A 21-day ultimatum effective from July 27, 2025, after which the NMA will embark on a total and indefinite strike if demands remain unmet; Condemnation of FG’s Attitude: The Association strongly condemned the Federal Government’s poor response to its earlier agreements and demands.
The Federal Government was urged to immediately implement all outstanding agreements to avert a looming crisis in the health sector; Engagement Continuity: The NOC and National Technical Negotiating Team (NTNT) were mandated to continue all engagements with the government, with a focus on delivering concrete results; and Despite the firm position, the NMA expressed hope that the government will act in good faith and swiftly address the issues raised.
“We remain hopeful that the Federal Government will seize this opportunity to restore confidence in its commitment to the health of Nigerians and the welfare of medical professionals,” the Association stated.
It urged its members across the country to remain united and steadfast in the pursuit of better working conditions and a stronger health system.
“This is a critical moment for Nigeria’s healthcare future. We must get it right,” the statement added.
The Association used the opportunity to convey its condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Governor of Katsina State, Mallam Dikko Umar Radda, and the people of Nigeria over the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
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