Federal Government suspends new medical allowance circular after backlash from NMA and NARD. Talks to resume on revised pay structure for doctors and dentists

The Federal Government has officially suspended the implementation of a controversial circular that reviewed the allowances of medical and dental officers in the federal public service.

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The decision follows a strong backlash from key medical associations, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).

The circular, dated June 27, 2025 (Ref No: SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646), issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), was criticised for unilaterally altering medical allowances without consensus.

Speaking with reporters on Monday, NARD President Dr Tope Osundara confirmed that the government had suspended the circular to allow for further consultations.

“It was agreed that the implementation of the circular should be suspended to allow for consultation with various professional associations,” he said.

This decision emerged from a high-level meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, who also serves as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Salaries.

Earlier, the NMA had issued a 21-day ultimatum demanding the circular’s withdrawal and warning of a nationwide shutdown of medical services if ignored. The ultimatum is set to expire on July 23, 2025.

NMA President, Prof Audu Bala, described the document as “unilateral and detrimental,” insisting it was not based on mutual agreement and jeopardised the welfare of doctors and dentists in public service.

An official circular dated July 18, 2025, and obtained by our correspondent, confirmed the government’s suspension of Circulars SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646, SWC/S/04/S.218/III/651, and SWC/S/04/S.410/VII/658. It was signed by NSIWC Chairman Ekpo Nta, Esq.

The circular was addressed to top government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the President, federal ministers, and the Head of Civil Service.

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The government now aims to restart negotiations with professional bodies in the health and education sectors, to prevent future disruptions and reach a consensus on allowances and benefits.