The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day notice to the Federal Government, threatening a total and indefinite nationwide strike if their longstanding welfare and professional demands are not urgently addressed.
In a communiqué released after an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held on July 26 in Abuja, the association criticized the government’s handling of critical issues affecting medical professionals and the healthcare system. The meeting, convened by the National Officers Committee (NOC), was in response to a recent circular by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) concerning the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
Signed by NMA President Prof. Bala Audu and Secretary-General Dr. Jamin Egbo, the communiqué expressed disappointment over the suspension—rather than complete withdrawal—of the controversial NSIWC circular. It also highlighted other unresolved issues, including:
- Non-payment of seven months of CONMESS adjustment arrears (25/35%)
- The government’s failure to honour existing Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Persistent neglect of Nigeria’s healthcare sector
“The EDM unanimously condemned the Federal Government’s dismissive attitude towards the welfare of Nigerian doctors and the overall decay in the health sector,” the communiqué stated.
The NMA warned that failure to address these demands within the 21-day window—effective from July 27—would result in a nationwide strike in accordance with labour laws, which could paralyze the country’s already fragile healthcare system.
The association further noted that none of its 19 listed demands had been fully met, and warned that continued inaction could worsen the nation’s health indices and escalate the exodus of medical professionals.
Condemning the growing trend of medical tourism among top government officials, the NMA described it as a glaring vote of no confidence in the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
While commending the efforts of its National Officers Committee and the National Technical Negotiating Team (NTNT), the association urged all Nigerian doctors to remain united and prepared for decisive action should the government fail to act.
The communiqué concluded with a strong appeal for immediate intervention to prevent a complete breakdown in healthcare delivery across the country.
