Doctors Nationwide Commence “Total and Indefinite Strike”

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) on Monday, announced plan to embark on an indefinite strike, which started on Tuesday

The NMA President, Dr Kayode Obembe, who made the announcement at a news conference in Abuja, said that the decision followed the expiration of a two-week ultimatum it gave the Federal Government to meet its 24-point demand.

Obembe, said they opted for a “total and indefinite strike” at an emergency delegates meeting held on June 28, after negotiations with the Federal Government failed to yield relevant results.

 “The NMA is taking this painful route because our silence and gentle approach to these contending issues have been taken for granted. We have to take this action in order to save the health care delivery system from anarchy that is palpably imminent.” He said.

He appealed for understanding, and called on Nigerians to prevail on the government to meet the demands which include reserving the position of chief medical director to only medical doctors, appointment of Surgeon General of the Federation, passage of National Health Bill and providing security for doctors.

Others include, increase in duty, hazard and specialist allowances, as well as budget for residency training programme.

The NMA equally demanded for the establishment of health trust fund, according to them, it will enhance the upgrading of all hospitals in Nigeria and among others.

Dear government, Doctors are live savers and should be prioritized above all things. Looking at the consistent blasts in different parts of the country, who will treat victims? Nurses?  Doctors going on strike indefinitely is very expensive, more expensive to the Nigerian people, than their demands.
Please look into their demands and fast... or at least reach a compromise with the NMA. Thank you.