Healthcare services in Zamfara State have come under pressure following the resumption of a six-day warning strike by members of the National Association of Nurses and Midwives (NANM) across state-owned general hospitals.
The action, which began on Saturday, was called by the union to protest what it described as the state government’s neglect of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), despite approving the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for doctors in June.
Chairman of the union, Sani Shehu, said the strike was aimed at compelling the government to address the disparity in salary implementation.
He noted that despite repeated engagements with the authorities up to August, no meaningful progress was made.
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The latest action comes weeks after the nurses and midwives association declared a seven-day warning strike on 11 September, which was suspended just 24 hours later following assurances from the government.
The union leader confirmed that members would continue the strike until Tuesday, after which an indefinite industrial action could follow if their demands remain unmet.
The warning strike has already raised concerns about access to healthcare in the state, with patients in public hospitals likely to experience delays in treatment and reduced services.
Meanwhile, residents and healthcare advocates are urging the government and union to reach a quick resolution to prevent a prolonged shutdown of critical health services.
