By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has given the Federal Government three weeks to conclude negotiations on its outstanding demands, warning that failure to reach an agreement could lead to a three-day warning strike.
The association issued the ultimatum in a communiqué released to journalists in Uyo on Friday after its Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting.
The communiqué, signed by NAMDA President Nosa Orhue and Acting Secretary-General Aniekan Peter, said the extension would run until August 31, 2026.
NAMDA said the additional period should be used by the government to resolve all outstanding issues.
It warned that failure to achieve a meaningful resolution by August 31 would result in a three-day warning strike, with the National Officers Committee expected to announce the date.
The association also directed its branches nationwide to hold congresses and sensitisation programmes at least twice during the extension period.
The branches are expected to submit reports and evidence of the mobilisation activities to the National Executive Council through the secretariat, including updates on their preparedness for possible industrial action.
NAMDA 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 intervention.
The association also thanked its members for their patience and cooperation in maintaining stability within the university system.
It raised concerns over what it described as the neglect of medical education and training amid shortages of medical and dental doctors and the continued migration of professionals, commonly known as “Japa”.
NAMDA reaffirmed its commitment to securing the full implementation of approved benefits for medical and dental lecturers and urged members to comply with directives and decisions reached at the E-NEC meeting.
