Doctors under the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Katsina State chapter, have rejected a new circular issued by the Federal Government on allowance adjustments for medical and dental officers, describing it as disappointing and misleading.
The doctors warned that if their demands are not met, they cannot guarantee continued healthcare services across the state.
In a communiqué issued after a meeting of the association’s State Executive Council (SEC) in Katsina, the doctors accused the Federal Government of violating agreements reached during earlier negotiations.
The circular in question, issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on June 27, was meant to address allowances for federal medical and dental officers. But the NMA said the document failed to meet their expectations.
“This circular is grossly inadequate and misleading. It violates the spirit and letter of the collective bargaining agreement between NMA and the Federal Government,” the communiqué stated.
The statement, signed by the NMA Katsina Chairman, Dr. Muhammadu Sani, and Secretary, Dr. Yahya Salisu, said the healthcare sector is already under serious pressure due to brain drain and burnout among doctors.
“Our members are overwhelmed by the workload and poor welfare. Government should have used this opportunity to boost morale through meaningful salary adjustments, not a half-hearted move,” the association said.
The doctors said they fully support the national body’s position and demand immediate withdrawal of the circular and implementation of the demands presented by the National Officers Committee (NOC) on July 2.
With a grace period set to expire soon, the doctors warned of possible disruption in healthcare delivery if no action is taken.
“We cannot guarantee non-disruption of services at the end of the grace period,” the statement concluded.