The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State chapter, on Sunday warned the Lagos State government that it would join the Medical Guild in an indefinite strike if doctors’ withheld salaries are not paid by August 25, 2025.
The association also raised fresh concerns about the welfare of doctors at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
Following an Emergency General Meeting (EGM) held over the weekend, the NMA declared its full support for the Medical Guild’s 21-day ultimatum to the state government. The Guild had demanded the immediate refund of unauthorised deductions from doctors’ July salaries and full payment of August wages.
In a communiqué signed by its Chairman, Dr. Saheed Babajide, and Secretary, Dr. O.J. Hassan, the association stated: “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.
“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 full-blown disruption 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.
“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 communiqué further read.
“On the matter of unpaid skipping arrears entitlements, which have already been settled in other federal hospitals, the association expressed frustration at the delay in compiling a list of affected doctors.
It urged MDCAN LUTH to conclude the list or advise the Chief Medical Director (CMD) to rely on existing records.
“The delay is unnecessary. Workers deserve their wages regardless of when the arrears were incurred,” the association noted.
The NMA Lagos further called on the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, to intervene urgently.
“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,” Babajide stressed.
The association expressed appreciation to all members and affiliate bodies that attended the EGM, reaffirming its commitment to defending the welfare and dignity of doctors in Lagos State.
