As the expiration of its 21-day ultimatum approaches, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a final warning to the Federal Government: meet our demands or face a nationwide shutdown of medical services.
The deadline, set to elapse on Tuesday, July 23, was triggered by the government’s issuance of a controversial circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), revising allowances for medical and dental officers. The NMA rejected the directive, calling it a violation of previous agreements and a threat to the welfare of healthcare professionals across Nigeria.
In an exclusive interview on Sunday, NMA President, Bala Audu, stated that the association is ready to take “decisive action” if the government fails to respond in time.
“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,” Prof. Audu said.
According to the NMA, the June 27 circular unilaterally alters existing agreements on remuneration, bypassing the required process of mutual consultation.
“We rejected that circular outright. Any directive affecting our members should come through dialogue, not imposition,” the NMA president asserted.
Ongoing Talks Delayed by Buhari’s Passing
Audu confirmed that talks had been initiated with top government officials, including Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, and Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako. However, a follow-up meeting scheduled for last week was postponed due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“The most recent engagement took place two weeks ago with key stakeholders, including the Ministries of Health, Finance, and Labour. Unfortunately, the follow-up was delayed due to national mourning,” Audu explained.
Despite this setback, he said the association expects a reconvening of talks early this week. Still, he warned that failure to act swiftly would leave the NMA with no alternative but to embark on a strike.
“We expect that after the funeral ceremonies, the government will reconvene discussions with us hopefully by Monday. If not, the 21-day ultimatum stands,” he said. “If the government fails to prioritise this matter, a strike may be inevitable.”
Katsina NMA Condemns Government’s Circular
Echoing national sentiments, the Katsina State branch of the NMA expressed outrage over the circular. In a communique released after its State Executive Council meeting on Saturday, the branch condemned the NSIWC directive and demanded its immediate withdrawal.
The statement, jointly signed by Muhammadu Sani (Chairman) and Yahya Salisu (Secretary), described the circular as “obnoxious” and warned that the government’s continued delay could disrupt healthcare delivery across the country.
“NMA Katsina State branch hereby rejects the NSIWC circular dated June 27, 2025, and demands urgent withdrawal and fulfillment of all outstanding demands. We cannot guarantee non-disruption of health services if this is not addressed,” the communique stated.
A Fragile Healthcare System at Risk
The NMA’s demands are centered on fair compensation, improved working conditions, and respect for prior agreements issues that have long plagued Nigeria’s healthcare sector. With mounting frustration among medical professionals, the looming industrial action threatens to further strain an already fragile system.
The coming days are critical, and whether or not the government engages meaningfully may determine if Nigeria’s hospitals remain open or face yet another shutdown.
