Doctors Embark On Nationwide Strike

Following the expiration of the December 14 ultimatum given by the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, to the Federal Government, FG, doctors in public health institutions are embarking on a nationwide strike starting from 8a.m. on Wednesday, December 18.

Providing this information in a communique issued after its National Executive Council, NEC, in Minna, Niger State, NMA President, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, and Secretary-General, Dr. Akpofuoma Pemu, said the decision was based on the extremely poor progress in the resolution of NMA’s demands.

However, they explained that in recognition of the Yuletide and appeals of well-meaning Nigerians, the withdrawal of services in the first instance would be for a period of 5 days but would recommence after the Yuletide.

They said: "We call on members of the public and the media to bear with the association during this period of withdrawal of services."

It was claimed that the NMA had been trying to engage the official structures into the process of addressing relevant challenges in the health sector for over 5 months. They added that the association had extended the ultimatum twice, however their efforts to further engage the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Health (following the invitation of the Minister of Health to a meeting) even at the 11th hour, ultimately collapsed.

NMA accused the government of reneging on their agreement as they had failed to implement the report of the Presidential Committee.

The statement said: "Since the report of the Presidential Committee was submitted to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, only the re-constitution and inauguration of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, MDCN, has been realised."
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