NAMDA gives FG three weeks to meet demands, threatens strike

The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has extended the deadline for the Federal Government to conclude negotiations on its outstanding demands, issuing a new ultimatum of three weeks. The association warned that failure to reach a resolution by August 31, 2026, would lead to the declaration of a three-day warning strike.

This extension was decided during NAMDA's Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting in Uyo. The communiqué stated that the extended period should be used by the government to resolve all pending issues. If meaningful progress is not achieved, the National Organizing Committee (NOC) will announce the warning strike.

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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.

NAMDA also mandated its branches nationwide to hold congresses and sensitization programs within the three-week timeframe, reporting on members' preparedness for a potential strike. The association expressed disappointment with the government's perceived reluctance in concluding negotiations.

However, NAMDA acknowledged the interventions of the Directorate of State Services (DSS) and other stakeholders in facilitating the talks. The association also criticized the government for not prioritizing medical education and training, especially given the shortage of medical and dental doctors and the prevalent "Japa syndrome", the emigration of skilled professionals. NAMDA reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the full implementation of approved benefits for medical and dental lecturers.

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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.