Nigerian Medical Association threatens nationwide strike over unresolved welfare issues.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has given the Federal Government 21 days to meet its demands or face an indefinite nationwide strike.
This decision followed an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held in Abuja, where the Association condemned the government’s persistent failure to address critical issues affecting doctors’ welfare and the healthcare sector.
In a communiqué signed by NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, and Secretary General, Dr. Benjamin Egbo, the delegates cites unresolved matters, including:
- A controversial circular by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
- Non-payment of seven months’ arrears of the 25/35% CONMESS adjustment.
- Failure to implement Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) previously signed with the Association.
The communiqué warns that, “Failure to address these demands within 21 days, effective July 27, 2025, will result in a total and indefinite strike.”
The meeting also expressed disappointment over prolonged negotiations and the government’s “nonchalant attitude” toward implementing signed agreements, describing this as a major threat to Nigeria’s healthcare system.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by its negotiation teams, the Association criticized the continued patronage of foreign hospitals by government officials, warning that the neglect of the health sector could worsen brain drain and cripple service delivery.
Despite its hard stance, NMA expressed hope that the Federal Government would act in the interest of Nigerians to avert a health crisis.
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