The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Niger State chapter, has strongly rejected the newly reviewed medical allowances released by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC), calling the move provocative and unfair.
In a circular dated June 27, 2025, NSIWC announced adjustments to the allowances of medical and dental officers in the federal civil service. However, the Niger NMA, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Muhammad D. Isah, and Secretary, Dr. Aliyu M. Chapa, described the circular as a clear violation of past agreements between the Federal Government and the association.
“These new figures go against the collective agreements reached in 2001, 2009, 2014, and 2021. It’s deeply disappointing and shows the government’s insensitivity to the struggles of medical workers still in Nigeria,” the statement read.
The association warned that such unilateral actions would only worsen the current wave of brain drain in the health sector, often referred to as the “japa syndrome,” where Nigerian doctors leave the country in search of better working conditions abroad.
“At a time when the system is overstretched and understaffed, this action disrespects the sacrifices of doctors and could lead to avoidable disruption in healthcare services,” they warned.
The Niger NMA pledged its full support for the national body’s position on the matter and urged the Federal Government to act quickly and fairly. They also reiterated their commitment to building a better healthcare system in the state, stressing the importance of properly motivating the remaining health workforce.
