The South-West Caucus of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) over what it described as an unfavourable allowance structure.
Doctors from Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, and Ondo states said the circular released by the NSIWC falls short of existing agreements and could lead to a region-wide indefinite strike from July 25 if not addressed.
The circular, dated June 27, 2025, has been widely criticised for breaching the 2001, 2009, and 2014 Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) between the NMA and the Federal Government.
Speaking on behalf of the caucus, Dr. Adeshina Fasanu warned that the move could worsen Nigeria’s brain drain crisis, citing the migration of thousands of doctors annually. “We lose over 2,000 doctors every year to countries offering better pay and working conditions,” he said.
The doctors are demanding the implementation of the 2025 Residency Fund, review of hazard allowances, and the reversal of the disputed circular.
They also want the government to honour the 2021 hazard allowance agreement and issue a circular approving the revised retirement age for medical and dental practitioners.
Other demands include improved funding for medical residency training, restoration of salary relativity between doctors and other health workers, and urgent action to address the doctor-to-patient ratio, which currently stands at 1:10,000—far below the World Health Organization’s recommended 1:1,000.
The caucus warned that if the Federal Government fails to act, it will convene an emergency meeting to advise members on the next steps, in alignment with the national leadership of the NMA.
Should the government renegotiate doctors’ allowances to stop the brain drain—or is the current structure fair given the general economic condition of the country?Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
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