Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Ogun State has officially called off its suspended strike after the state government paid the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and new minimum wage.
Dr. Luqman Ogunjinmi, the state chairman of NMA, made this announcement at a press conference in Abeokuta during the weekend, expressing gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for fulfilling his promise.
The strike, which began on August 5, 2024, was sparked by unresolved issues regarding pay disparity between federal and state medical workers.
However, after successful negotiations, the government agreed to pay the revised CONMESS, prompting the NMA to suspend the strike on August 29, 2024.
Dr. Ogunjinmi praised Governor Abiodun’s leadership and commitment to the welfare of medical doctors in the state.
He noted that the payment of revised salaries demonstrates the government’s dedication to improving the working conditions of doctors in Ogun State.
He stated, “Today, I stand before you to express our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, for fulfilling his promise to pay the revised CONMESS and minimum wage to our members.
“This gesture demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare of doctors working in Ogun State.”
He added, “You will all recall that members of the Association, during an Emergency General Meeting on July 23, 2024, resolved to embark on a strike on August 5, 2024, which was subsequently suspended on August 29, 2024, to allow for negotiations with the Government.”
“It is with great honor that I inform the public that the previously suspended strike has now been officially called off.”, Dr Ogunjinmi concluded.
While the strike has been called off, Dr. Ogunjinmi emphasized that other concerns, such as issues affecting members working as lecturers at Olabisi Onabanjo University and doctors from the Hospital Management Board and Ministry of Health, will be discussed with the government in the coming days.
This development brings relief to patients and healthcare workers in Ogun State, marking a significant step towards resolving the long-standing pay disparity issue.
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