THE Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has suspended its planned nationwide strike, originally slated to commence today (Thursday), following what it described as “encouraging” progress in negotiations with the federal government.
The strike threat, which stemmed from a controversial circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on revised allowances for medical and dental officers, had triggered a 21-day ultimatum from the association on July 2. That ultimatum officially expired on Wednesday, July 23.
However, in a major development, the circular in question has now been put on hold to allow for further dialogue.
Top government officials met with NMA leaders on Tuesday and Wednesday in Abuja in a series of high-level engagements aimed at averting industrial action that would disrupt services across federal hospitals.
The talks included representatives from: the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation and the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
Speaking to the press following Wednesday’s meeting, NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, confirmed that no strike would occur before Saturday, pending the outcome of ongoing deliberations.
“Both sides are happy with each other. Deliberations continue tomorrow (Thursday). From now up to Saturday, there won’t be a strike. Anything can happen after Saturday, but most likely, better services after Saturday.”
He emphasized that the current tone of the dialogue has been productive and positive.
The dispute began with the NSIWC’s circular, which the doctors said violated prior agreements on remuneration frameworks. The NMA viewed the circular as undermining long-standing arrangements and accused the commission of acting unilaterally.
In response, the association issued a 21-day ultimatum for the federal government to reverse the circular and address broader welfare concerns in the health sector.
The NMA leadership will hold another round of meetings with the federal government today (Thursday). While the strike has been paused, the union has made it clear that if satisfactory commitments are not finalized by Saturday, industrial action could still follow.
As of now, all sides remain cautiously optimistic that the standoff will be resolved without disruption to healthcare services.
