Ogun NMA suspends 25-day strike

Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ogun State chapter, says the body plans to suspend its 25-day strike effect to facilitate a period of peaceful dialogue with the state government.

The decision to end the 25-day strike, which had paralyzed medical services across state-owned healthcare facilities, was made public on Friday after an emergency general meeting held between August 27 and August 29, 2024, in Abeokuta.

Chairman of the Ogun State NMA, Dr. OgunJimi Luqma said the State government’s failure to implement the reviewed Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) wage, which had been in effect for federal medical workers since June 2023 had triggered the strike

He stressed that the association’s decision to call off the strike was motivated by the hardship faced by the public during the strike period.

“The congress acknowledges the severe impact on the people of Ogun State due to the disruption in medical services.

“We have opted to suspend the strike for four weeks to allow for meaningful discussions and negotiations with the state government.”

The emergency general meeting, which first convened on August 27 and reconvened on August 29, assessed the effectiveness of the strike and reviewed members’ compliance.

“The Congress also considered the progress of negotiations with the state government.

“Despite ongoing efforts by the NMA executives, the issue of wage disparity remains unresolved.”

The decision to resume work was announced with a clear timeline: doctors are to return to their duties at 8:00 AM on Monday, September 2, 2024.