The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the federal government, threatening a total and indefinite strike over what it described as the government’s failure to meet long-standing demands affecting doctors nationwide.
In a communiqué released after an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held on July 26, 2025, in Abuja, the NMA expressed deep frustration over stalled negotiations and what it termed the government’s “persistent neglect” of doctors’ welfare and the health sector at large.
The communiqué, signed by NMA President Prof. Bala Audu and Secretary General Dr. Jamin Egbo, cited several unresolved issues, including the controversial suspension—rather than a full withdrawal—of a circular from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) that had sparked outrage within the association.
The circular, which reviewed the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), was a key trigger for the emergency meeting. According to the NMA, the circular’s provisions undermined previously agreed-upon terms regarding doctors’ pay and conditions.
Among the demands raised were the payment of seven months’ arrears of the 25/35% CONMESS adjustment, the honoring of earlier signed Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), and a broader call for better prioritization of healthcare governance across the country.
“The EDM, after extensive deliberations, unanimously condemned the federal government’s approach to the welfare of its members,” the communiqué stated. “It issued a 21-day notice of total and indefinite strike, effective from July 27, 2025, in line with relevant labour laws.”
While the association left room for negotiations, it warned that failure to act within the notice period would lead to a nationwide industrial action, further straining Nigeria’s already fragile health system.
The NMA also voiced concern over the inadequate implementation of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with government representatives in previous negotiations, and what it described as worsening economic hardship affecting both healthcare workers and the general public.
Delegates at the meeting raised alarms about the ongoing brain drain in the medical sector, fueled by poor working conditions, as well as the increasing reliance on medical tourism by public officials, which they said erodes confidence in the national health system.
Despite the tensions, the NMA commended the efforts of its National Officers Committee and the National Technical Negotiating Team (NTNT) for their continued engagement with relevant government agencies.
It also acknowledged the participation of delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urging unity among Nigerian doctors in the face of mounting challenges.
In its final statement, the NMA called on the federal government to act swiftly to prevent a disruption in healthcare services, stressing that timely intervention would save lives and restore faith in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
