Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, has issued a 21-day notice of total and indefinite strike over the alleged failure of the federal government to address its long-standing demands.
The association, in a communiqué signed by its President, Professor Bala Audu, and Secretary-General, Dr Jamin Egbo, cited several unresolved issues, including the suspension—rather than withdrawal—of a recent circular by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, NSIWC, which the association had opposed.
It issued a 21-day notice of total and indefinite strike, effective July 27, in line with relevant labour laws, should government fail to comprehensively address the association’s demands within this period.
While expressing optimism that government would act responsibly to avert a nationwide industrial action, the association noted the risk that the neglect poses to the already fragile health system and urged the relevant authorities to consider the health needs of citizens and the wellbeing of medical professionals.
NMA commended the efforts of its National Officers Committee and the National Technical Negotiating Team, NTNT, in their continued engagement with government agencies. However, it lamented that none of its 19 listed demands had been fully met.
The association also expressed concern over: inadequate implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, signed with government representatives,
It noted the rising economic hardship affecting both doctors and citizens, continued neglect of the health sector, which contributes to brain drain and poor national health indices,
The increasing trend of medical tourism by government officials, which it said undermines confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The NMA appreciated delegates from the 36 states and the FCT who participated in the meeting and called on doctors to remain united and committed to the association’s shared vision.
The communique ended with a call for immediate intervention to prevent avoidable disruption in the country’s health services.
