The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the administration of President Bola Tinubu, threatening an indefinite nationwide strike over the government’s alleged failure to address long-standing grievances affecting the medical profession.
This decision was outlined in a communiqué released at the conclusion of an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held on July 26, 2025, in Abuja.
The meeting was organized by the National Officers Committee (NOC) of the NMA in reaction to a circular issued by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC), concerning a review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
According to the communiqué—jointly signed by the association’s President, Professor Bala Audu, and Secretary General, Dr. Jamin Egbo—the issues fueling the looming industrial action include the mere suspension (rather than total withdrawal) of the NSIWC circular, the failure to pay seven months’ worth of accrued CONMESS adjustment arrears at the 25/35% rate, breaches of previously signed Collective Bargaining Agreements, and an overall disregard for Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Following thorough deliberations, the communiqué noted that the EDM unanimously expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government’s handling of matters concerning the welfare of Nigerian doctors, describing it as grossly inadequate.
The association warned that if the government fails to fully meet its demands within the 21-day window starting July 27, 2025, doctors nationwide would embark on a total and indefinite strike, as permitted by existing labour regulations.
The NMA cautioned that a lack of prompt government response could bring Nigeria’s already struggling healthcare system to a halt. It emphasized the urgent need to address the concerns of medical professionals to prevent further deterioration of the sector.
According to the communiqué, none of the 19 core demands presented by the NMA have been fully implemented. The group warned that continued neglect could severely impact national health outcomes and further accelerate the ongoing brain drain of healthcare workers.
The NMA also took a swipe at the growing trend of medical tourism among senior government officials, interpreting it as a direct vote of no confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare institutions.
While commending the dedication of its National Officers Committee and the National Technical Negotiating Team (NTNT), the association called on all medical practitioners in the country to remain united and vigilant in anticipation of possible industrial action.
The communiqué concluded with a call for immediate and sincere government intervention to forestall a breakdown of healthcare delivery services across the nation.
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