The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has given the Federal Government an additional three weeks to conclude negotiations over its outstanding demands, warning that failure to reach a resolution could trigger industrial action.

The association announced the decision in a communiqué issued to journalists in Uyo on Friday after its Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting.

The communiqué, jointly signed by NAMDA President, Dr. Nosa Lancy Orhue, and Acting Secretary-General, Prof. Aniekan Peter, stated that the extension would allow more time for dialogue and possible resolution of the outstanding issues.

According to the association, the Federal Government has until August 31, 2026, to conclude negotiations, failing which it will announce a three-day warning strike.

Part of the communiqué read: “A three-week timeline extension was adopted for 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 its branches nationwide to intensify engagement with members by organising at least two congresses and sensitisation programmes within the extension period.

The association instructed all branches to submit reports and evidence of their mobilisation activities to the National Executive Council through the Secretariat, including details of members' preparedness for the proposed strike.

While expressing dissatisfaction with what it described as the government's reluctance to conclude negotiations, NAMDA commended the Department of State Services (DSS) and other supporters of the association for their continued efforts to facilitate dialogue.

It also appreciated the patience and cooperation of its members, noting that their conduct had helped maintain stability within Nigeria's university system.

The association further lamented what it described as the poor prioritisation of medical education and training despite the shortage of medical and dental professionals and the continued migration of healthcare workers abroad.

NAMDA reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the full implementation of all approved benefits for medical and dental lecturers and urged members to comply with all resolutions reached during the meeting.