The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission’s recent circular, which examined the benefits of medical and dental officers in the federal public service, has been suspended by the federal government.
Numerous medical associations, including the Nigerian Medical Association, the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, among others, strongly criticized the contentious circular, which was issued on June 27, 2025, and had reference number SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646.
On July 2, the NMA gave the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to revoke the circular and fulfill its other demands in order to prevent health sector workers from going on strike.
The circular, according to NMA President Prof. Audu Bala, contains provisions that were not mutually agreed upon and that compromise the welfare and compensation of medical professionals. The NMA threatened to ground medical services across the country if the government did not comply with its demands by July 23.
The circular has been abolished for additional consideration, according to NARD President Dr. Tope Osundara
“Arising from the meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy with his capacity as the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Salaries today, it was agreed at the implementation of circular with reference number SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646, dated 27 June 2025, should be suspended to allow for further consultation with various professional associations. According to Osundara.
“So, it has been suspended for further negotiations,” Osundara stated.
In an effort to prevent industrial action, the Federal Government previously met with NMA representatives at a higher level. Prof. Bala observed that the government showed seriousness throughout the talks and seemed dedicated to addressing all of the association’s concerns.
