NMA Gives Tinubu Government 21-Day Ultimatum to Avert Indefinite Strike Over Unmet Demands and Healthcare Neglect
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the administration of President Bola Tinubu, threatening a total and indefinite strike over the government’s continued failure to meet its long-standing demands.
The warning was contained in a communiqué released following an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held on July 26, 2025, in Abuja. The meeting was convened by the National Officers Committee (NOC) in response to a recent circular from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
Signed by NMA President, Professor Bala Audu, and Secretary General, Dr. Jamin Egbo, the communiqué highlighted several unresolved issues, including the suspension—rather than full withdrawal—of the NSIWC circular, non-payment of seven months’ arrears of the 25/35% CONMESS adjustment, breach of Collective Bargaining Agreements, and the federal government’s overall neglect of the health sector.
The EDM, after extensive deliberations, unanimously condemned the government’s handling of healthcare professionals’ welfare and its failure to address critical issues affecting Nigerian doctors.
According to the communiqué, the 21-day notice—beginning July 27, 2025—aligns with existing labour laws and will culminate in an indefinite strike if the government does not comprehensively address the association’s demands within the period.
The NMA warned that further inaction could paralyze Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system and urged the government to prioritise both the wellbeing of medical personnel and the citizens they serve.
It noted that none of the 19 demands previously submitted had been fully met and expressed concern that continued neglect could lead to worsening national health indices and accelerate the ongoing exodus of medical professionals.
The association also criticised the growing trend of medical tourism among top government officials, describing it as a clear vote of no confidence in Nigeria’s own healthcare infrastructure.
While commending the dedication of its National Officers Committee and the National Technical Negotiating Team (NTNT), the NMA called on all doctors in Nigeria to remain unified and prepared to act should the government fail to meet its obligations within the specified timeline.
The communiqué ended with a strong appeal for immediate government intervention to prevent a looming disruption in the country’s health sector.
