The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the federal government, warning of a total and indefinite nationwide strike if urgent actions are not taken to address its long-standing demands.
According to the association, these demands include the settlement of unpaid salary arrears and the suspension of a controversial salary review circular.
This was stated in a communiqué released after an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held in Abuja, which was convened in response to growing dissatisfaction with the federal government’s handling of matters affecting medical doctors.
The communiqué identified key grievances such as the non-payment of seven months’ salary arrears arising from the 25/35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) adjustment, the failure to implement previously signed Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), and what the NMA described as systemic neglect of Nigeria’s health sector.
Signed by NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, and Secretary-General, Dr. Jamin Egbo, the communiqué strongly criticised the government’s approach to doctors’ welfare and its perceived indifference to the deteriorating state of the health sector.
“The EDM issued a 21-day notice of total and indefinite strike in line with the relevant labour laws effective from 27th July 2025, should the government fail to address its demands comprehensively within this period,” the communiqué read.
It also condemned the suspension—rather than a complete withdrawal—of the recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which the NMA said contained several inadequacies despite having been discussed in conciliatory meetings.
The doctors’ body further criticised the government for its failure to act on 19 critical demands previously submitted by the NMA, and lamented that medical professionals continue to work under deplorable conditions while political leaders routinely travel abroad for healthcare.
“The EDM noted that these actions and inactions of the government at all levels are capable of increasing brain drain and worsening our already sub-par health indices in the country,” it stated.
Despite its dissatisfaction, the NMA expressed hope that the government would act decisively within the 21-day deadline to avert a strike and forestall deeper crises within Nigeria’s already fragile health system.
The association urged its members across the country to remain united and committed to the collective goal of advancing healthcare delivery and protecting the welfare of doctors.
