July 10, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Medical Association, Borno State Branch, has vowed to comply with further directives after the 21-day ultimatum given to the federal government by its National body elapses.
THEWILL recalls that the NMA had recently notified the Federal Government to meet its demands in order to avert industrial action in the health sector.
The association expressed disappointment and condemned the circular on the consequential adjustment of allowances under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure for medical and dental practitioners in Nigeria.
Aligning with the national body on Thursday, the Chairman of NMA, Borno Branch, Dr. El-Yakub Mohammed, during a press conference, said its members are ready to comply with the industrial action if the ultimatum elapses.
He said, “the NMA Borno State Branch, under my leadership, unequivocally and firmly aligns with the position of the National Executive Council of the Nigerian Medical Association led by our President, Prof. Bala Audu. We join the National NMA in rejecting this circular in its entirety.”
He further stated that the circular is not only a deviation from the principles of fairness, but also represents a clear violation of multiple Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) reached between the NMA and the Federal Government in 2001, 2009, 2014, and reaffirmed in 2021.
“Moreover, it disrupts the established relativity in remuneration between the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS)—a relativity that has been fundamental in maintaining harmony in the health sector.
“We are particularly disturbed by the unilateral nature of this circular, which contradicts the spirit of engagement, mutual respect, and dialogue that has historically guided remuneration decisions in the sector.
“The circular has further dampened the morale of the few doctors who have remained committed to serving in Nigeria, despite worsening economic realities and a massive exodus of healthcare professionals.
“The NMA Borno State Branch fully supports the 21-point demands of the National NMA”, El-Yakub noted.
According to him, the NMA Borno State Branch remains resolute in defending the dignity, rights, and welfare of doctors and will not hesitate to take all lawful steps, in concert with its national leadership, to protect their members and safeguard the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
