Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria Urges Government to Address Demands of Nigeria Medical Association

Strategic Insights -

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has shown solidarity with the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) and called for the federal government to address the NMA's demands. The NMA had rejected a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) that reviewed allowances for medical and dental officers, citing a violation of collective bargaining agreements and a threat to industrial harmony. The circular, referenced SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646 and dated June 27, 2025, has been met with a 21-day ultimatum from the NMA for its withdrawal. The MDCAN has joined the NMA in demanding the government's action to address the pressing issues and avert a looming strike.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has expressed solidarity with the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) over the rejection of a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
  • The circular reviewed allowances for medical and dental officers but was deemed a violation of existing collective bargaining agreements by the NMA.
  • The NMA has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the government for the withdrawal of the circular.
  • The MDCAN has called for the immediate correction of consequential adjustments in line with the agreements of 2001, 2009, and 2014.
  • The association demanded the withdrawal of the circular, the settlement of outstanding arrears of 25/35% CONMESS, and the payment of Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) for 2025.
  • The doctors also demanded the release of the Circular on Clinical Duty and other allowances for honorary consultants as agreed in January 2024.
  • The infrastructure of the National Hospital has been decaying, patient services disrupted, shifting blame on government officials.

Statistics:

  • The circular referenced SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646 and dated June 27, 2025, reviewed allowances for medical and dental officers in the federal public service.
  • 21 days: the ultimatum given by the NMA to the government for the withdrawal of the circular.
  • 2001, 2009, and 2014: the years during which agreements were made regarding collective bargaining between doctors and the government.
  • 25/35% CONMESS: the rate of arrears owed to medical and dental practitioners, as demanded by the MDCAN.

Sources:

  • The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Press Briefing
  • The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) Statement
  • National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) Circular SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646 dated June 27, 2025