The Abia State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has firmly rejected the June 27, 2025 circular issued by the National Salary, Income, and Wages Commission (NSIWC), describing it as a breach of prior agreements reached with the Federal Government.

 

At a press briefing held at the NMA Secretariat in Umuahia on Friday, the state chairman, Dr. Ezuruike Ezinwa, declared full support for the 21-day ultimatum issued by the national body of the NMA, led by its President, Professor Bala Mohammed Audu, along with the association’s 18-point demands.

 

Dr. Ezinwa condemned the recent circular as a gross violation of the terms negotiated during collective bargaining between the Federal Government and the NMA. He said the document disregards due process and undermines the spirit of democratic engagement.

 

“This circular has worsened the already deteriorating morale of the few doctors and nurses still practicing in Nigeria,” he stated.

 

 

 

He emphasized that neglect of doctors’ welfare continues to drive the mass exodus of medical professionals to other countries in search of better opportunities.

 

The Abia NMA is calling for:

 

Immediate withdrawal of the June 27 circular on revised allowances for Medical and Dental Officers in the federal service.

 

Full implementation of previous agreements reached with the NMA.

 

Issuance of a new circular reflecting the reviewed retirement age for medical and dental practitioners.

 

A policy mandating that hospitals be headed only by qualified medical doctors.

 

 

Dr. Ezinwa affirmed that the Abia NMA stands “totally and unequivocally” with the national leadership of the association and is committed to pursuing justice and equity for healthcare professionals across Nigeria.