Nigeria’s healthcare system may face nationwide disruption as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) warns of a full-scale strike if the Federal Government fails to address its demands before the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum on Tuesday, July 23.
NMA President, Professor Bala Audu, disclosed in an exclusive interview on Sunday that the association is prepared to suspend all medical services across the country, citing unresolved issues surrounding a controversial circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. The circular reportedly revised allowances for federal medical and dental officers without due consultation, sparking outrage among medical professionals.
According to Prof. Audu, the directive undermines existing agreements and significantly impacts the welfare of healthcare workers. “This document includes unilateral provisions that were not agreed upon. It’s a breach of trust, and we’ve rejected it outright,” he stated.
The ultimatum, issued on July 2, demanded the immediate withdrawal of the circular and called for a comprehensive review of longstanding concerns affecting the healthcare workforce. While preliminary meetings have been held with government stakeholders—including Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Pate, his deputy Dr. Iziaq Salako, officials from the Ministry of Labour, and the National Salaries Commission—no resolution has been reached.
A follow-up meeting scheduled for last week was postponed due to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. However, the NMA insists that dialogue must resume immediately to avert an impending shutdown of public hospitals.
“We’re hoping that stakeholders will reconvene by Monday. Time is running out. If nothing changes, the strike becomes inevitable,” Audu warned.
Reinforcing the national body’s stance, the Katsina State branch of the NMA issued a communique following its executive meeting on Saturday, denouncing the circular and demanding urgent action. The statement, signed by Chairman Dr. Muhammadu Sani and Secretary Dr. Yahya Salisu, expressed “grave disappointment” with the Federal Government and warned that continuous inaction could trigger a collapse in service delivery.
“The circular from NSIWC dated June 27 is unacceptable. It contradicts earlier agreements and fails to reflect the reality of medical practice in Nigeria,” the communique read.
With just hours left before the deadline lapses, all eyes are on the Federal Government to take decisive action. Experts warn that a strike at this scale could paralyze public healthcare services nationwide, affecting millions of Nigerians who rely on government-run hospitals for essential care.
The NMA has maintained that unless urgent steps are taken to address the demands—including fair remuneration, better working conditions, and inclusive policy engagement—the association will mobilize its members for indefinite industrial action.