The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has announced a 21-day strike notice to address serious concerns regarding discrimination within the university system. They warn that if their demands are not met, their members—who hold Medical and Dental Fellowships across the country—may halt their services.

This announcement followed an important virtual meeting of the MDCAN’s National Executive Council (NEC), where the decision was communicated. The statement was made by President Prof. Aminu Mohammad and Secretary Prof. Daiyabu Ibrahim in Jos, Plateau State.

MDCAN stated that their members would take lawful actions, which could include withdrawing services, especially if universities continue to post job advertisements for Vice Chancellor positions that unfairly exclude Medical and Dental Lecturers. They firmly declared, “We will no longer accept any unfair treatment toward holders of Medical and Dental Fellowships.”

The council highlighted the issue that it is unacceptable for universities to require a PhD for the Vice Chancellor role while ignoring the qualifications of Medical and Dental Fellowships, which they believe are equally valid.

Moreover, MDCAN criticized the government’s failure to increase the retirement age for medical consultants to 70 years. They emphasized the growing need for these specialists in training future doctors and providing specialized medical services in hospitals.

The association also urged the federal government to expedite the alignment of salaries for Clinical Medical Lecturers with the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) to address significant shortfalls in pay and pension.

In conclusion, MDCAN commended its members for their efforts to challenge discriminatory job advertisements that limit the participation of medical lecturers in university management. The association remains committed to fighting for the rights of its members and ensuring fair treatment in the academic and medical fields.