Ahead of the planned nationwide strike by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) scheduled for Thursday, the association and representatives of the federal government would meet in Abuja today.

On July 2, the NMA had warned that it may shut down medical services across the country if the federal government fails to address its demands before the expiration of its 21-day ultimatum on Wednesday, July 23.

NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, issued the warning, stating that the association was fully prepared to take decisive action if necessary.

He emphasized that the demands were essential to the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the welfare of medical professionals.

The ultimatum came in response to a controversial circular released by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) regarding revised allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.

However, the circular was suspended for further negotiations.

On Tuesday, the federal government held further high-level meetings with representatives of the NMA in Abuja in a bid to forestall industrial action.

The meeting included the NMA alongside the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare; the Ministry of Labour and Employment; the Ministry of Budget and National Planning; the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation; the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation; and the NSIWC

Speaking in a telephone conversation with Daily Trust after the meeting, the NMA president said there would be another meeting today.

“At the meeting, we looked at all the issues raised; we went through them one by one. There is another meeting tomorrow and on Thursday. If things go on the way it has started, it is most likely there will be no strike. Two aspects of our demands have been met,” Audu said. (Daily Trust)