The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives – Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) began a seven-day warning strike on Wednesday, despite the Federal Government’s requests to refrain from this action.
Advertisements
The union explained that the strike was necessary after a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14, 2025, lapsed, which called for better welfare, fair allowances, and improved working conditions for nurses in federal health institutions.
On Tuesday, the national chairman of the union, Morakinyo Rilwan, expressed that the Federal Government had not engaged in meaningful discussions with the association during the time allowed.
“As far as we are concerned, there has been no communication from the government up to this moment. That is why we are proceeding with the strike, and nothing can halt it.
“Even if the government reaches out today or tomorrow, it won’t change the strike. They had ample time,” Rilwan remarked.
furucinovel reports that the nurses’ requests include an increase in shift allowance, adjustments to uniform allowance, the establishment of a separate salary structure for nurses, enhanced core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nurses, and the formation of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
Rilwan stated that the choice to strike was not made solely by the union’s leadership but was fueled by widespread frustration among members due to prolonged neglect.
He emphasized that the nurses are prepared for the Federal Government’s typical ‘no work, no pay’ threat and are willing to make sacrifices.
“This strike was not started by the union’s leadership; it was initiated by the members, and they have made their desires clear.
“They are not even considering the ‘no work, no pay’ threat, as that is the only language the government seems to understand, and they are ready — because the compensation they receive is insufficient for their needs. They are prepared.