The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State chapter, has firmly rejected the June 27, 2025 circular issued by the National Salary Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding the review of allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service. The position was announced on Friday at the NMA Secretariat in Umuahia.
Dr. Ezuruike Ezinwa, Chairman of NMA Abia, emphasized that the circular undermines previously negotiated agreements between the Federal Government and the medical body, describing it as a gross violation of collective bargaining outcomes. He expressed full support for the 21-day ultimatum issued by the national NMA body, led by President Professor Bala Mohammed Audu, along with its 18-point demand list.
Dr. Ezuruike lamented that the circular has worsened the plight of the dwindling number of doctors and nurses still practicing in Nigeria. He blamed the government's disregard for frontline healthcare workers’ welfare for the ongoing exodus of medical professionals abroad.
Key demands from the Abia NMA chapter include:
- Immediate withdrawal of the disputed June 27 circular on salary and allowance reviews.
- Hospitals to be headed by qualified medical doctors, not non-medical professionals.
- Issuance of a circular implementing the reviewed retirement age for medical and dental practitioners.
- Full respect for all prior collective bargaining agreements to restore fairness and morale.
The NMA Abia members align with national efforts to negotiate better terms for medical officers and warn that ignoring these concerns jeopardizes Nigeria’s healthcare system's stability and service quality.
This rejection echoes similar protests from other state NMA chapters and resident doctors nationwide who accuse the government of eroding salary structures, disrespecting agreements, and demoralizing healthcare workers.
The dispute highlights lingering tensions between medical professionals and the federal government amid calls for urgent resolutions to prevent worsening brain drain and healthcare crises across Nigeria.
