Medical doctors in Ekiti and Ondo states have strongly condemned a recent directive by the Federal Government on the review of allowances for health workers, describing it as “obnoxious” and a breach of existing agreements.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) chapters in both states have vowed to resist the policy and warned that failure to withdraw the controversial circular within the 21-day ultimatum issued by the national body could spark a nationwide strike.
The circular, issued by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission on June 27, 2025 (ref: SWC/S/04/S.218/11/646), proposes a revised allowance structure for medical and dental officers in the federal public service. However, NMA leaders say the directive undermines long-standing salary relativity agreements between doctors and other health workers.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Ekiti State NMA Chairman, Dr Ifedayo Oreyemi, called for the immediate withdrawal of the circular, saying it represents “a flagrant contravention” of collective bargaining agreements reached in 2001, 2009, and 2014.
“The action of the Federal Government demonstrates insensitivity and hypocrisy, failing to honour prior agreements with the NMA,” Oreyemi said. He added that amid worsening working conditions and mass migration of doctors abroad, the government should be investing in the domestic healthcare system, not provoking unrest.
Oreyemi reiterated the NMA’s key demands, which include:
Immediate withdrawal of the June 27 circular.
Correction of consequential salary adjustments in line with past agreements.
Commitment to sustainable healthcare investments.
In Ondo State, the NMA echoed similar sentiments. Following an emergency meeting in Akure, the state chapter, through a communique signed by Chairman Dr Alonge Olumuyiwa and Secretary Dr Olaopa Gideon, labeled the policy “ill-conceived and ill-timed.”
The association noted that the circular worsens existing challenges such as:
A critical shortage of medical personnel driven by the Japa exodus,
Poor remuneration,
Unfavourable working conditions, and
Backlogs of unpaid entitlements.
“This circular is a slap in the face of doctors who have chosen to stay behind and serve the country despite the global demand for their skills,” the communique read.
The Ondo chapter also demanded a 300% salary increase for all medical and dental practitioners and urged senior colleagues to publicly support the cause. Members have been placed on standby for further directives, which may include industrial action.
As the 21-day ultimatum draws closer, the NMA insists it will not back down until the government respects existing agreements and prioritises the wellbeing of its healthcare workforce.
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