The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has distanced itself from the ongoing two-week warning strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), declaring that it is not affiliated with the body.
It further said the body cannot be compelled to join the ongoing strike, as it operates independently to safeguard the interests of medical lecturers.
The organization refuted claims that its members have participated in the ASUU strike, asserting that it “will not be blackmailed, pressured, or tempted away from the interests of its members.”
NAMDA emphasized its status as an independent union capable of negotiating its own interests without outside influence from other academic organizations.
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As the trade union representing medical lecturers in universities, tertiary health institutions, and research facilities, NAMDA is responsible for both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education, including training for postgraduate doctors and dentists throughout Nigeria.
The union affirmed its right to pursue its demands through legitimate means, including legal action.
“A withdrawal of services initiated by our union will depend solely on the relevant sections of our constitution,” it stated, cautioning that such a move, if deemed necessary, would significantly impact the crucial sectors of education and health.
In a statement released on Wednesday, co-signed by its President, Dr. Nosa Orhue, Secretary-General, Dr. Abdulrahman Shehu, and National Liaison Officer/Organising Secretary, Dr. Muhammad Askira, the association reiterated its refusal to be coerced or misled away from its members’ interests.
“NAMDA is an independent union capable of negotiating its interests and fostering mutual respect. We are not on strike and will not be pressured or diverted from our members’ interests,” the group declared.
It noted that despite previous clarifications, it continues to receive inquiries from members, journalists, and the public regarding its stance on ASUU’s strike.
The statement also highlighted that NAMDA members have long been neglected by the system, but the union will persist in supporting only legitimate demands that do not adversely affect its members’ critical interests.
“NAMDA is aware of the recent discussions between the federal government and other unions, which have excluded some unions, including NAMDA, from the university system.
“Interestingly, these discussions have not significantly resolved the issues at hand. NAMDA has communicated its demands to the federal government through the ministries of labour and education,” it stated.
The group mentioned that its leadership had met with the minister of education in a session organized by the minister of labour and employment, describing the outcome as “very encouraging.”
