Confusion shrouded the nurses’ strike on Friday after a quiet but determined resistance simmers within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has firmly stated that its nationwide warning strike continues, directly contradicting the federal government’s claim of a suspension.
On Friday, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, stepped out of a closed-door meeting and declared that the union had called off the strike.
He claimed the government and union leaders had reached “key agreements” addressing several of the nurses’ longstanding demands.
However, he failed to outline any specific details.
Soon after, the narrative shifted.
Speaking with newsmen, NANNM Chairman, Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, firmly refuted the minister’s statement.
“The minister announced that the union has called off the strike—is the minister a nurse?” he asked pointedly.
“Yes, we met.
But our leadership has not yet reviewed the outcome or made any decision.
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Therefore, the strike continues.”
Members To Decide Way Forward
Consequently, the union has scheduled a general congress for Saturday.
During this meeting, members will deliberate on the government’s proposals and determine their next steps.
The strike, which began on July 29, was originally designed as a warning—a one-week action ending on August 5.
However, years of frustration have fuelled the nurses’ resolve.
They have highlighted chronic neglect, inadequate pay, lack of professional recognition, and worsening working conditions.
Longstanding Demands Remain
At the heart of their demands, the nurses want the government to formally gazette the Nurses’ Scheme of Service.
Although the National Council on Establishment approved it back in 2016, the government has failed to implement it.
Additionally, they are calling on the government to enforce a National Industrial Court judgement from January 2012, which they argue validates key aspects of their professional entitlements.
Furthermore, the union is demanding an upward review of professional allowances, the recruitment of more nursing personnel, and significant upgrades to healthcare infrastructure.
They also want the Federal Ministry of Health to establish a dedicated Department of Nursing.
In addition, NANNM is pushing for fairer representation in national health policy bodies, inclusion in the leadership of federal health institutions, and centralised internship placements for graduate nurses.
Most notably, they are seeking official recognition of consultancy status for qualified nurses and midwives.
As the warning strike nears its scheduled end, tension remains high.
Still, one fact stands out: Nigeria’s nurses have taken a stand—and they intend to be heard.
