Medical Lecturers in Akwa Ibom Begin Two-Week Strike Over Salary Structure Dispute
Medical lecturers at the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), under the umbrella of affiliate bodies of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, have embarked on a two-week strike over the university’s alleged failure to migrate them to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
The striking affiliates include the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) and the Association of Specialists Medical and Dental Academics (ASMEDA).
The industrial action follows the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued to the university management, demanding full implementation of CONMESS and payment of outstanding arrears.
Despite the university’s governing council reportedly approving the transition to CONMESS, the lecturers claim the management has failed to implement it, resulting in continued salary discrepancies and financial hardship for academic doctors.
“We can no longer remain silent while our members are being denied their rightful entitlements,” a spokesperson for the NMA said. “This non-implementation not only undermines morale but also contributes to the ongoing brain drain in the health sector.”
The NMA also raised concerns over other unresolved issues, including delayed promotions and an acute shortage of medical lecturers and officers at the university’s health center. These conditions have allegedly led to excessive workload and burnout among the limited personnel still in service.
This protest reflects a broader trend across Nigeria, as medical academics in other universities — including Obafemi Awolowo University and institutions in the South-West — have similarly withdrawn services over non-implementation of CONMESS. These strikes have disrupted academic activities, clinical services, and the overall functioning of medical schools.
MDCAN has been vocal about the need for federal intervention to ensure uniform application of CONMESS across all medical and dental academic institutions. The association argues that without prompt action, the country risks further weakening its healthcare education and service delivery systems.
The strike is expected to significantly impact clinical training and academic schedules at UNIUYO, with stakeholders urging immediate dialogue and resolution to prevent prolonged disruption.
