Doctors Set for Nationwide Strike as 21-Day Ultimatum Ends Thursday

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced plans to commence an indefinite nationwide strike from Thursday, July 23, if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands.

NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, disclosed this in an interview on Sunday, warning that the association would have no option but to withdraw services should the government ignore their grievances.

“The ultimatum we issued expires on July 23. If the Federal Government does not address our concerns before then, industrial action will be unavoidable,” Audu stated.

Why the Ultimatum?

The NMA had on July 2 issued a 21-day notice demanding the withdrawal of a controversial circular by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). The circular, which reviewed allowances for medical and dental officers, was rejected by doctors who described it as a breach of prior agreements.

According to Audu, the provisions in the circular were not mutually agreed upon and negatively affect the welfare of healthcare professionals.
“We have outrightly rejected that circular. Any new policy impacting our members must result from proper consultation, not imposition,” he stressed.

Efforts to Avert Strike

The NMA leadership revealed that meetings had been held with key government stakeholders, including Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Pate, his deputy, Dr. Iziaq Salako, and representatives from the Ministries of Labour and Finance.

“Unfortunately, the follow-up meeting scheduled for last week could not hold due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. We expect the government to reconvene talks immediately after the funeral ceremonies. Otherwise, the countdown to strike continues,” Audu warned.

Katsina NMA Reacts

Meanwhile, the NMA branch in Katsina, in a communiqué issued after its State Executive Council meeting, described the circular as “obnoxious” and demanded its urgent withdrawal.

Signed by its Chairman, Dr. Muhammadu Sani, and Secretary, Dr. Yahya Salisu, the communiqué stated:
“The Katsina State branch rejects NSIWC’s circular (SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646) dated June 27, 2025, on allowances review and calls on the government to meet all outstanding demands. Failure to do so could result in disruptions to healthcare services.”

As the deadline draws near, fears are growing that a nationwide shutdown of medical services could worsen the country’s already fragile healthcare system.