The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has given the Federal Government until Saturday to meet its demands and avert a nationwide strike by medical professionals.
This follows the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued by the association on July 2 over a controversial circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.
The NMA had condemned the circular, describing it as a breach of existing agreements with the government. While the circular has since been suspended for further negotiations, talks between the two parties are ongoing.
High-level meetings were held on Tuesday and Wednesday in Abuja between the NMA and key government stakeholders, including representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the Office of the Accountant General, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, and the NSIWC.
Speaking to Daily Trust after Wednesday’s meeting, NMA President Prof. Bala Audu said no strike action would take place between now and Saturday, pending the outcome of further deliberations.
“So far, so good. We are doing very well. Both sides are happy with each other. The deliberations continue tomorrow,” he said. “From now up to Saturday, there won’t be a strike. Anything can happen after Saturday, but most likely, better services after Saturday.”
Audu expressed optimism that the ongoing engagements would lead to a positive resolution, potentially forestalling industrial action in the health sector.
