Nurses begin seven-day nationwide strike Tuesday
Nurses begin seven-day nationwide strike Tuesday
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding improved welfare, equitable allowances, and better working conditions for nurses.
The notice, jointly signed by National Secretary Enya Osinachi and released by the President, Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, was made public in Abuja on Monday.
This decision followed an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) held on July 10 in Abuja.
According to the Federal Health Institutions arm of the union (NANNM-FHI), the ultimatum is aimed at fostering proactive dialogue with the government on critical issues affecting its members.
The notice explained that the action became necessary after a 15-day ultimatum, issued July 14, expired without a meaningful response from the Federal Government or the Federal Ministry of Health.
“The strike, starting at 12 on Tuesday, July 29, will involve total service withdrawal across all Federal health institutions.
The NANNM-FHI reaffirmed the vital role of nurses in healthcare delivery, emphasizing that those responsible for 60–70 percent of hospital services deserve improved welfare, equitable treatment, and proper recognition for their indispensable contributions.
The association firmly rejected a circular issued on June 27 by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, calling for its immediate reversal.
It also demanded urgent adjustments to key allowances, including shift duty, call duty, and retention allowances.
NANNM-FHI urged the Federal Government to engage constructively, stressing that a well-supported nursing workforce is essential for delivering quality healthcare and sustaining effective public health systems across all federal medical institutions in Nigeria.
