Strike Looms as Doctors Issue Fresh Deadline

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced plans to begin a nationwide strike on Thursday, July 24, if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands.

NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, made this known as the association’s 21-day ultimatum nears its end on July 23.

He stressed that the strike aims to protect Nigeria’s collapsing healthcare system not to serve personal interests.

“We have made our position clear,” Prof. Audu said. “The ultimatum ends on July 23. If the Federal Government fails to respond, we will proceed with the strike.”

He accused the government of issuing a circular with terms that were never discussed or agreed upon.

According to him, the directive undermines the welfare and remuneration of doctors across Nigeria.

“We rejected the circular outright,” he said. “Any new policy that affects our members must come through mutual agreement, not imposition.”

Prof. Audu warned that the healthcare sector faces a humanitarian crisis if the government continues to delay action.

He confirmed that the association had already engaged key stakeholders to prevent a breakdown in medical services.

Two weeks ago, the NMA held a crucial meeting with top officials. Those present included the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako; the Permanent Secretary; the Director of Hospital Services; and a representative of the Minister of Labour. Some NMA affiliate groups also attended the meeting.

A follow-up meeting planned for last week did not hold due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

On July 2, the NMA issued its ultimatum in response to a controversial circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.

The circular introduced revised allowances for medical and dental officers, which the NMA said violated earlier agreements.

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