NMA Rejects New Circular On Allowances, Issues 21-Day Ultimatum To FG

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has rejected a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), describing it as a violation of existing collective bargaining agreements and a threat to industrial harmony in the health sector. The medical body has issued a 21-day ultimatum for its withdrawal.

NMA president, Prof. Bala Audu, who stated this at a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, condemned the circular, referenced SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646 and dated June 27, 2025, which addresses the review of allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.

He demanded its immediate withdrawal and replacement with a revised version reflecting previously agreed terms.

“The circular is grossly inadequate, misleading, and a flagrant breach of the spirit and letter of agreements reached during negotiations between the NMA and the Federal Government.

“It has further heightened the frustration among the few patriotic doctors still choosing to serve in Nigeria under challenging conditions,” Prof. Audu said.

NMA said it had submitted the correct adjustment tables to the appropriate government bodies, but expressed dismay that these were discarded without any consultation before the unilateral issuance of the new circular.

The association has presented an 18-point list of demands to the federal government, which includes, “Immediate withdrawal of the June 27 circular, correction of consequential adjustments based on the 2001, 2009, and 2014 collective bargaining agreements and others.”

Prof. Audu emphasised that the association has consistently demonstrated goodwill and maintained open dialogue with relevant government agencies and the Federal Ministry of Health. However, he warned that failure to meet the association’s demands within 21 days would result in possible disruptions to healthcare services nationwide.

“As a responsible and responsive association that understands and respects values, we have painstakingly and repeatedly engaged in dialogue with the relevant agencies of government and the Federal Ministry of Health.

“We have exhibited so much goodwill and intend to continue same as long as we get our appropriate and timely dues. We hereby expect that attention will be given to our demands within next 21days to avert disruption in the health services rendered to the Nigerian People,” he said.