Lectures suspended as strike begins at UNILAG College of Medicine

By Isa Isawade

Academic activities at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos have been suspended following an indefinite strike declared by medical and dental lecturers under the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA-UNILAG).

The lecturers announced their withdrawal from academic, clinical and research duties following what they described as failed negotiations with the university management over unresolved welfare and regulatory concerns.

In a notice addressed to the Vice Chancellor, Folasade Ogunsola, the union said the industrial action officially started on Monday, May 18, 2026.

The strike decision followed the expiration of a three-week ultimatum earlier issued to the university authorities.

According to the notice signed by the chairman of NAMDA-UNILAG, Ugburo Andrew Omotayo, members resolved during a congress held on May 15 to proceed with the strike after management allegedly failed to continue discussions on the union’s demands.

The action is expected to affect medical students across the College of Medicine, with lecturers suspending lectures, ward rounds, tutorials, seminars, laboratory practicals and supervision of academic research.

“Our members will not be involved in lectures of medical students, tutorial teaching, seminar teaching, case-based learning, clinical teaching in the clinics, the wards and theatres,” the letter stated.

The union also announced that members would stay away from university-related meetings during the strike period.

The notice added that, there will be “no laboratory teaching, demonstrations and supervision of research,” while lecturers will also boycott meetings involving the university, College of Medicine, faculties and departments.

All examinations have also been suspended.