The Federal Government has stepped back from implementing a controversial circular on doctors’ allowances, suspending it after emergency talks with medical associations to prevent an impending nationwide strike.
The circular — issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on June 27, 2025 (Ref: SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646) — had triggered widespread backlash. Groups like the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) argued that the provisions were not mutually agreed upon and undermined the welfare of medical professionals.
On July 2, the NMA gave the government a 21‑day ultimatum to withdraw the circular or face a shutdown of medical services by July 23.
Decision after high-level talks
Speaking on Monday, NARD President Dr. Tope Osundara confirmed that the circular has now been suspended:
“It was agreed that the implementation of circular with reference number SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646 should be suspended to allow for further consultation with various professional associations.”
This followed a meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, who also heads the Presidential Committee on Salaries.
What the new circular says
A follow-up directive dated July 18, 2025, signed by Ekpo Nta, Esq., Executive Chairman of NSIWC, was circulated to top government offices, including the Chief of Staff and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
It stated:
“Implementation of Circulars Nos: SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646 and SWC/S/04/S.218/III/651 dated 27th June 2025, and SWC/S/04/S.410/VII/658 dated 30th June 2025, should be suspended to allow further consultation with professional associations and unions in the health and education sectors.”
Positive signs from dialogue
NMA President Prof. Bala Audu acknowledged that government officials have shown seriousness in resolving the matter, with ongoing consultations aimed at protecting both medical workers’ welfare and public health services.
For now, the suspension of the circular has averted the immediate strike threat, but all eyes remain on further negotiations in the days ahead.
