NMA Strike May Be Averted As Talks Progress with Federal Government

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has opened discussions with top federal government officials in a bid to resolve disputes over revised allowances for medical professionals.

With just days left before its 21-day ultimatum expires, the association now says it is unlikely the planned doctors strike will happen if current negotiations continue smoothly.

The standoff began after the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission released a circular that introduced changes to the allowances of medical and dental officers in federal service. The NMA opposed the circular, arguing it violated earlier agreements and failed to consider the welfare of healthcare workers. On July 2, the association gave the government until July 23 to withdraw the circular and address other pending demands or face industrial action.

In response, the government initiated talks through key ministries, including Health and Social Welfare; Labour and Employment; Finance, Budget and National Planning; the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission; and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. These engagements, according to the NMA, are already yielding positive results.

The association’s president, Professor Bala Audu, confirmed that negotiations began this week and are progressing steadily. He said the discussions are focused on two key areas: existing agreements that need to be implemented and new issues that require fresh negotiations. According to him, the talks have so far been constructive, with both sides showing willingness to reach a fair settlement.

Among the concerns being addressed is the Medical Residency Training Fund. The NMA confirmed that a large portion of the 2025 allocation has already been paid, a move it considers a positive step. Other welfare-related demands, including proper application of previous agreements during salary reviews, are also on the table.

While the NMA insists that its position remains firm, the tone of the discussion has shifted. The association acknowledged the government’s commitment to resolving the dispute and noted that if talks continue at the current pace, there may be no need for a strike.

The looming threat of industrial action had raised concerns across the country, especially in public hospitals that are already stretched thin. A nationwide strike by doctors would have disrupted healthcare services at a time when access to treatment is already limited for many Nigerians.

The NMA has reiterated that its demands are not new or unreasonable, and that it is only asking for what was previously agreed to be respected. It also confirmed that the government has agreed to jointly review those agreements and make adjustments where necessary.

While no final agreement has been signed yet, both sides have expressed optimism. The NMA’s leadership has assured members that it will not back down from its core demands but will continue to engage in dialogue until a practical solution is reached.

As the deadline approaches, attention now turns to the outcome of the ongoing meetings. If the government follows through on its promises and the discussions lead to clear resolutions, the country may avoid another disruption in the health sector.