Medical services across Nigeria could be brought to a halt starting Thursday, July 25, as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) warns of a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to address its demands. With just days left before the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum, doctors are demanding the immediate withdrawal of a controversial government circular they say threatens the welfare of medical professionals and the sustainability of the healthcare system.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), through its President, Professor Bala Audu, has declared its readiness to shut down health services across the country if the Federal Government does not respond decisively to concerns raised over a new directive from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
“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,” Prof Audu stated in an exclusive interview on Sunday.
The NMA issued the 21-day ultimatum on July 2 following the release of NSIWC circular (SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646), which proposes revised allowances for medical and dental officers in federal service. According to the association, the circular undermines previously agreed terms and was introduced without mutual consultation.
Prof Audu explained that the circular contains provisions that were not collectively agreed upon and could further demoralize medical professionals. “We have rejected that circular outright. We expect that any new directive affecting our members should be the outcome of mutual consultation, not something imposed,” he emphasized.
While the NMA has held initial meetings with key government stakeholders, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, and Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, progress has been slow. The most recent planned meeting was postponed following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“The next meeting is expected to include the Ministry of Finance, NSIWC, and the Ministry of Health,” Prof Audu said. “We hope it holds early this week. If not, and if our concerns are not addressed, the strike may become inevitable.”
The NMA warns that failure to resolve these issues will severely impact healthcare delivery nationwide. “Our demands are critical to the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the welfare of our doctors. Time is running out,” Prof Audu added.
Echoing the national body’s frustration, the Katsina State branch of the NMA issued a strong statement over the weekend, condemning the NSIWC circular and demanding its immediate withdrawal. The communique, signed by Dr Muhammadu Sani (Chairman) and Dr Yahya Salisu (Secretary), described the circular as “obnoxious” and an outright violation of previous agreements.
“NMA Katsina State branch hereby rejects the NSIWC’s circular dated June 27, 2025, and demands urgent government action to fulfill all outstanding demands,” the statement read.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Federal Government to act swiftly and avoid a crisis that could paralyze Nigeria’s already strained healthcare system.
For healthcare supply chain and pharmaceutical sectors, the potential strike could disrupt operations, delay procurement, and affect service delivery. Entrepreneurs and businesses in these sectors are advised to prepare contingency plans as developments unfold.
