The Lagos state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has threatened to join the Medical Guild in an indefinite strike if the withheld salaries of doctors are not paid by August 25, 2025.
In a communiqué released after an emergency general meeting (EGM) held over the weekend, the NMA expressed full support for the Medical Guild’s 21-day ultimatum to the state government.
The guild is demanding the immediate refund of unauthorised deductions from doctors’ July salaries and complete payment of their August wages.
The association also raised fresh concerns over the welfare of doctors at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
“If by August 25, the government fails to refund the July 2025 deductions and ensure full payment of August salaries, the Medical Guild will commence an indefinite strike and NMA Lagos will not stand aside,” the communique reads.
“We will join in the solidarity strike two weeks after the Medical Guild’s action begins if the government remains unresponsive.
“The persistent tampering with doctors’ earnings without explanation or justification is unacceptable and an affront to the medical profession.”
The NMA urged the Lagos state government to act swiftly to prevent a total collapse of healthcare services across the state.
“We are not threatening for the sake of it. But if these issues are not resolved, we will stand firmly with the Medical Guild and ensure our members are no longer treated with disdain,” the association said.
“We insist that free call meals must be provided to doctors on duty. The welfare of those who keep the health system running is not negotiable.
“The delay is unnecessary. Workers deserve their wages regardless of when the arrears were incurred.”
The association also implored Akin Abayomi, commissioner for health in Lagos, to speedily resolve the crisis.
“The Commissioner must act with urgency. This situation demands not just a bureaucratic response, but political will to protect the integrity of the health workforce in Lagos,” the communique added.
