Healthcare Crisis Looms as NMA Issues Ultimatum to FG
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a stern warning of an impending strike action over the federal government’s failure to address concerns surrounding revised allowances for medical and dental officers.
On July 2, the NMA issued a 21-day ultimatum to the federal government, which expires on Wednesday, demanding the withdrawal of a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. The association claims the document violates longstanding agreements.
“These allowances are a product of a percentage of the basic salary. However, this was not applied,” said Bala Audu, NMA President, during a Sunday interview on Channels Television.
Audu added that the circular was issued “unilaterally” without involving key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health. “This circular was issued unilaterally, and it completely ignored the observations that were raised. It even refused to involve the Ministry of Health in developing this circular.”
He further noted that senior consultants are among those affected. “The circular also reduced some of the allowances of senior consultants leaving the country.”
The NMA insists that the circular be withdrawn to pave the way for negotiation. “Our simple demand is that the circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission should be withdrawn so that all stakeholders can come to the negotiating table and discuss.”
He also emphasised the need for immediate payment of arrears. “Our second demand is to ensure all the arrears accrued over the last 18 months are settled immediately.”
Audu concluded: “We risk the whole healthcare system of this country being shut down, which the Nigerian Medical Association does not in any way want to see happen.”
