The association said the extension was necessary to allow further discussions with the government on its outstanding demands, but cautioned that it would not hesitate to embark on a warning strike if meaningful progress was not recorded before the deadline of August 31, 2026.
NAMDA disclosed this in a communiqué released to journalists in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, following the conclusion of its Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting.
The communiqué, signed by the association’s President, Dr Nosa Lancy Orhue, and Acting Secretary-General, Prof. Aniekan Peter, stated that members agreed to grant the government additional time to address unresolved matters.
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.”
The association said the additional period should be used by the government to bring the prolonged negotiations to a conclusion and prevent disruptions within the nation’s medical education sector.
As part of preparations, NAMDA directed its branches nationwide to intensify engagement with members through congresses and sensitisation programmes. The branches were instructed to organise at least two mobilisation activities within the three-week period and submit reports to the National Executive Council through the secretariat.
The reports, according to the communiqué, are expected to reflect the level of awareness, readiness, and mobilisation among members in anticipation of possible industrial action.
NAMDA expressed concern over what it described as the government’s slow pace in concluding negotiations, while acknowledging the efforts of the Directorate of State Services (DSS) and other stakeholders who have intervened in the discussions.
The association also commended its members for their patience and cooperation in maintaining stability within the university system despite the unresolved issues.
Beyond the immediate negotiations, NAMDA raised concerns over what it described as the inadequate attention given to medical education and training in Nigeria. It linked the situation to the shortage of medical and dental professionals in the country and the growing migration of healthcare workers abroad, popularly referred to as the “Japa syndrome.”
The group reiterated its commitment to securing the full implementation of approved welfare packages and benefits for medical and dental lecturers, stressing that these measures are critical to retaining skilled professionals and improving the quality of medical training.
The association further urged its members to comply with all directives and resolutions reached during the E-NEC meeting as it continues to monitor developments in the negotiations with the Federal Government.