The Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Niger State branch, has expressed dismay and deep disappointment over the release of a recent circular by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, NSIWC.
NSIWC, in a circular dated 27th June 2025 (Ref: NSIWC/S/04/S.218/111/646), purportedly reviewed allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal civil service.
In a swift reaction, the Niger State NMA, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Dr Muhammad D. Isah, and Secretary, Dr Aliyu M. Chapa, said the circular is not only obnoxious but provocative and a gross violation of the collective bargaining agreements reached in 2001, 2009, 2014, and 2021 between NMA and Federal Government.
They stated, “At a time of immense strain on the existing health work force after a chunk has emigrated, the federal government has yet again with this circular showed its insensitivity and disregard for the welfare of the few doctors left behind to grapple with a difficult health system.”
The state NMA leadership insisted that this unilateral action disrespects their patriotic services and has the potential to worsen the existing brain drain (japa syndrome), if not reversed.
“We, therefore, wish to state that we stand in solidarity and align fully with the resolutions and demands of the national leadership and urge the federal government to act swiftly and justly to avert an avoidable disruption in health care delivery,” the statement maintained.
The association reiterated its commitment to improving the health system within the state and understands the role a well-motivated health workforce could play in achieving an efficient and effective health care delivery.
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