Medical allowances suspension announced after backlash from health bodies. FG halts implementation pending wider consultation with stakeholders

Medical allowances suspension has been confirmed by the Federal Government following strong opposition from health sector unions and professional bodies.

Also read: Nigerian Medical Association Issues Strike Warning as Deadline Loom

The decision comes after the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission issued a controversial circular on 27 June 2025, which proposed changes to the allowances of medical and dental officers in the federal public service.

The Nigerian Medical Association, joined by other prominent health groups including the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, criticised the circular for lacking mutual agreement.

President of the NMA, Prof Audu Bala, warned earlier this month that the circular undermined the welfare of medical professionals and issued a 21-day ultimatum for its withdrawal.

“We made it clear that the contents of the circular were not jointly agreed upon. It risks worsening conditions in the health sector,” Bala said.

The NMA’s deadline was set to expire on 23 July, with threats of nationwide disruption to medical services if the Federal Government failed to act.

Dr Tope Osundara, President of NARD, confirmed on Monday that the controversial document had been withdrawn.

“Arising from the meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance in his capacity as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Salaries, it was agreed that implementation should be suspended for further consultation,” Osundara told our correspondent.

He said the government has responded to concerns raised by the unions and opened a new round of deliberations to prevent escalation.

An internal circular dated 18 July 2025, signed by the Executive Chairman of NSIWC, Ekpo Nta, was also obtained.

It confirmed the 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.

The correspondence was addressed to top federal officials, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Ministers, and the Head of the Civil Service.

According to the document, further consultations will now be held with various professional associations in both the health and education sectors before any review of allowances proceeds.

The government has since held high-level meetings with representatives of the NMA to avert strike action and address their broader concerns.

Also read: NMA Threatens Strike Over Controversial Doctors Allowance Circular

Prof Bala confirmed the discussions were constructive, saying, “The government showed seriousness in engaging with us, and we are hopeful for a favourable outcome.”