The Federal Government has suspended a controversial circular issued by the
National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission that sought to review the
allowances of medical and dental officers in the federal public service.
The circular, dated June 27, 2025, triggered widespread criticism from medical
associations, including the Nigerian Medical Association, the Medical and Dental
Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors.
The Nigerian Medical Association had earlier issued a 21-day ultimatum to the
government to withdraw the circular and meet their demands to avoid industrial
action in the health sector. The ultimatum expires on July 23.
The NMA President, Professor Audu Bala, described the circular as containing
provisions that were not mutually agreed upon and that undermined the welfare of
medical professionals.
Speaking exclusively to our correspondent, the President of the Nigerian Association
of Resident Doctors, Dr. Tope Osundara, confirmed the suspension of the circular
following a meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of
the Economy in his capacity as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Salaries.
Dr. Osundara said the suspension was to allow further consultations with professional
associations.
In a related development, a fresh circular dated July 18, 2025, obtained exclusively by
our correspondent, confirmed the suspension of the June 27 circular alongside others
relating to health and education professionals’ allowances.
Signed by the NSIWC Chairman, Ekpo Nta, the circular detailed that the decision was
made to ensure further negotiations with the relevant professional bodies.
The Federal Government has also held additional high-level meetings with
representatives of the NMA in a bid to forestall industrial action.
Professor Bala acknowledged the government’s commitment to resolving the issues
and described the discussions as serious and constructive.