The Federal Government has suspended a recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission that reviewed the allowances of medical and dental officers in federal service.
Dated June 27, 2025, and referenced SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646, the circular sparked backlash from major medical bodies including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).
The NMA had issued a 21-day ultimatum on July 2, demanding the withdrawal of the circular and urging the government to meet its outstanding demands or face a nationwide strike by July 23. NMA President, Prof. Audu Bala, criticized the document, stating it contained provisions not jointly agreed upon and detrimental to the welfare of healthcare workers.
Confirming the latest development, NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, told our correspondent on Monday that the circular has now been suspended to allow for further consultations.
“Following a meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, who also serves as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Salaries, it was agreed that the implementation of the circular should be halted to enable broader engagement with professional bodies,” Osundara said.
Further details are expected.