The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has given the Federal Government a three-week extension to conclude negotiations over its outstanding demands, warning that failure to reach an agreement could trigger a three-day warning strike.
The association issued the ultimatum in a communiqué released to journalists in Uyo on Friday, following its Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting.
The communiqué, endorsed by the President, Nosa Orhue, and the Acting Secretary-General, Aniekan Peter, said the extension would run until August 31, 2026.
It stated, “A three-week timeline extension was adopted for a possible further consideration. E-NEC further resolved that the extension period should be utilised by government to resolve all outstanding issues.
“Failure to achieve meaningful resolution at the expiration of the period ending on the 31st of August 2026 shall result in the declaration of a three-day warning strike to be announced by NOC.”
NAMDA also directed all its branches nationwide to engage their members through congresses and sensitisation programmes at least twice during the extension period.
The branches are expected to submit evidence and reports of the mobilisation activities to the National Executive Council through the secretariat, indicating their level of preparedness for possible strike action.
The association expressed concern over what it described as the government’s reluctance to conclude negotiations, while commending the Department of State Services (DSS) and other stakeholders for their interventions in the process.
NAMDA also appreciated its members for their patience and cooperation in maintaining stability within the university system.
The association further lamented the alleged neglect of medical education and training amid the shortage of medical and dental doctors and the increasing migration of professionals, popularly known as the “Japa” syndrome.
It reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the full implementation of all approved benefits for medical and dental lecturers and urged its members to comply with all directives and decisions reached at the meeting.
