The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives has called off its nationwide warning strike, Minister of Health Ali Pate announced on Friday, August 1.
Speaking to journalists following a closed-door meeting held in Abuja, Pate confirmed that the decision was reached after successful negotiations between the federal government and the union’s leadership. However, union leaders declined to comment after the meeting.
The strike, which began on July 29 and was scheduled to last until August 5, disrupted services across federal health institutions. Nurses and midwives had downed tools over unmet demands, including improved welfare packages, fair allowances, and better working conditions.
The union’s National Chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan, had earlier accused the government of ignoring a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14.
“As far as we are concerned, there has been no communication from the government to this moment. That is why we are saying the strike is going on, and nothing is stopping it,” Rilwan had said. He added “Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time.”
The association’s demands include an upward review of shift and uniform allowances, implementation of a separate salary structure for nurses, increased core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nurses, and the establishment of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
Rilwan also noted that the decision to strike was fueled by deep frustration among members after years of government neglect.
