The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has suspended its planned strike action and given the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to address long-standing demands.
The decision was made at an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held in Abuja, as outlined in a communiqué jointly signed by NMA President Bala Audu and Secretary-General Jamin Egbo.
The communiqué raised concerns over unresolved welfare issues and the treatment of medical professionals, noting the difficult conditions under which many doctors operate. It stated that these longstanding matters require urgent and comprehensive intervention.
Despite these challenges, the association expressed optimism that the government would act swiftly and meaningfully in the interest of public health and the well-being of the country’s medical workforce.
The NMA’s position followed a circular issued by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS). Dated June 27, 2025, the circular was deemed inconsistent with prior agreements, leading to calls for its immediate withdrawal.
Among its major demands, the NMA called for the resolution of disparities between CONMESS and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), as well as the full implementation of the 2001 Collective Bargaining Agreement on professional allowances.
The association also demanded the payment of clinical duty and accoutrement allowances, along with an upward revision of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund to better support the country’s future medical workforce.
It stressed the need for constructive engagement as a means of preventing disruptions in healthcare delivery and enhancing morale among professionals in the sector.
The NMA expressed hope that proactive steps by the government would strengthen the health sector and help retain skilled personnel within the country.
(NAN)