Nationwide Strike Looms as Nigerian Medical association (NMA) 21-Day Ultimatum Nears Deadline

As the July 23 deadline approaches, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a stern warning: medical services across the country could be shut down if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands.

In an exclusive interview, NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, confirmed the association's readiness to embark on nationwide industrial action. The move follows a controversial circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which proposed revised allowances for medical and dental officers in federal public service—changes the NMA says violate prior agreements.

"We have made our position clear. The ultimatum ends on July 23, and if the Federal Government does not address our demands, we may have no choice but to proceed with a strike,” said Prof. Audu.

According to the NMA, the circular was issued without mutual agreement and undermines both the welfare and remuneration of healthcare workers in Nigeria. “We expect that any new directive affecting our members should result from proper consultation, not unilateral decisions,” Audu emphasized.

High-Stakes Talks

The NMA has been in dialogue with key government figures, including Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate; Minister of State, Dr. Iziaq Salako; and representatives from the Ministry of Labour. However, scheduled follow-up meetings were disrupted due to the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“The next meeting is supposed to involve us, the NSIWC, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health. We’re hoping it happens before the ultimatum expires,” Prof. Audu added.

Support for the NMA’s stance is growing across the country. In a strongly-worded communique, the Katsina State branch of the NMA declared its “grave disappointment” with the NSIWC’s circular dated June 27, 2025. The branch demanded its immediate withdrawal and reaffirmed its support for the national body’s demands.

“We cannot guarantee non-disruption of health services if our demands are not met,” warned Dr. Muhammadu Sani, Chairman of the Katsina State NMA, and Dr. Yahya Salisu, Secretary, in the joint statement.

At the core of the NMA’s ultimatum is the future of Nigeria’s fragile healthcare system. The association argues that poor remuneration and unilateral policy decisions are driving a brain drain and eroding morale within the sector.

Unless meaningful engagement occurs in the coming days, Nigeria could be on the brink of yet another nationwide healthcare shutdown—one with far-reaching consequences for patients and practitioners alike.