The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has appealed to the Federal Government to engage the association in dialogue to ensure quality healthcare services and development of the health sector.

Its Lagos State Chairman, Dr Babajide Saheed, made the call during a news conference yesterday in Lagos.

Saheed emphasised that this was critical to avert crisis in the sector and resolve the controversy that arose due to the circular on the salary structure.

According to him, only through collaborative, evidence-based decision-making can the country achieve a salary structure that is fair, sustainable, and in line with global best practices.

He further added that the salary structure should value the enormous sacrifice and responsibility of Nigerian doctors.

“The NMA Lagos State Branch fully aligns with and supports the 21-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government by the National Officers Committee of the NMA.

“This ultimatum is not an act of confrontation but a call for urgent dialogue and correction.

“We also affirm our unwavering support for all the demands articulated by the national body, including the restoration of salary relativity, the reversal of unjust allowance allocations, and the adoption of a professionally sound and globally aligned remuneration framework.”

Saheed also urged the Lagos State Government to refrain from adopting the proposed salary structure in its current form.

He called on Lagos government to wait for a resolution properly negotiated and endorsed by NMA national.

“Lagos has a history of promoting excellence in healthcare. Implementing a flawed structure will not only damage that reputation but may also result in avoidable disruption across health facilities in the state.”

He cautioned that the ongoing brain drain in the health sector will worsen significantly if the current issues are not addressed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NMA on July 2, called on the Federal Government to address its grievances within a 21-day window.

The NMA requested that the government withdraws and replaces the National, Salaries, Income, Wages Commission (NSIWC) circular, honour all outstanding collective bargain agreements.

Other demands include resolve outstanding allowances and correct distortions in the pay structure; and protect the professional autonomy and dignity of Nigerian doctors. (NAN)