NMA Opposes Allowance Review for Medical /Dental Officers
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Edo State Branch, on Friday, expressed worry over the recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission, on June 27, 2025, regarding the review of allowances for Medical and Dental Officers in the Federal public service, saying the move would further debilitate the already fragile healthcare sector.
In a statement in Benin, Chairman, Nigeria Medical Association, Edo State Branch, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, said the move would further hamper the already fragile healthcare sector.
He lamented that the decision of the National Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission on the review of allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service was unacceptable.
He said the decision demonstrated a stark insensitivity to the prevailing economic realities and “flagrantly disregards the meticulously negotiated collective bargaining agreements.”
Oseghale noted that it is disheartening that this decision came at a time when retaining and motivating the scarce healthcare personnel in the country is an uphill task.
The statement reads: “The Nigeria Medical Association, Edo State Branch, expresses its profound disappointment and disillusionment with the recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission on June 27, 2025, regarding the review of allowances for Medical and Dental Officers in the Federal public service.
“This circular demonstrates a stark insensitivity to the prevailing economic realities and flagrantly disregards the meticulously negotiated collective bargaining agreements. Moreover, it will further debilitate the already fragile healthcare sector.
“It is particularly disheartening that this decision comes at a time when retaining and motivating the scarce healthcare personnel in the country is an uphill task.
“We unequivocally reject this circular and urge relevant stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene promptly to protect the interests of Nigeria’s patients, who undoubtedly deserve better.
“The NBA, Edo State Branch, will align herself with the progressive position of the national body to protect medical practice and patients’ well-being in the country, “ Oseghale said.
Recall that the national leadership of the NMA has called for immediate intervention by President Bola Tinubu, just as it handed over a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to come up with a new circular that reflects previous agreements reached between the duo to avert disruption in health services.
