- NMA REJECTS NEW PAY CIRCULAR, GIVES FG 21-DAY ULTIMATUM…………
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has rejected a new salary adjustment circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), calling it inadequate and a violation of prior agreements.
NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, at a press briefing in Abuja, warned that doctors may embark on a nationwide strike if the government fails to act within 21 days.
He said the circular, dated June 27, 2025, disrespects years of negotiation and worsens tensions in the health sector. The NMA accused the government of ignoring repeated engagement efforts.
The association demanded the immediate withdrawal of the circular and correction of salary adjustments based on agreements from 2001, 2009, and 2014. Other demands include:
Payment of 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund
Negotiation of a new CONMESS agreement
Implementation of allowances for specialist skills and workload
Enforcement of 2021 hazard allowance
Uniform CONMESS adoption across all MDAs
Review of doctors’ retirement age
Reversal of non-doctor consultant appointments
Constitution of boards for federal hospitals
The NMA called on President Tinubu and the National Assembly to intervene urgently to prevent further disruption in the health sector.