Nurses under the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives – Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) have begun a seven-day warning strike, defying appeals from the Federal Government to suspend the action.
The strike, which took effect from midnight, follows the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14, 2025. The union is demanding improved welfare, better allowances, and working conditions for nurses serving in federal health facilities.
Speaking on Tuesday, NANNM-FHI National Chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan, expressed disappointment in the government’s failure to engage with the union before the deadline elapsed.
“To this moment, we’ve received no meaningful response from the government. That’s why the strike is proceeding as planned. Even if they reach out today or tomorrow, it’s too late. They had their chance,” Rilwan stated.
Among the association’s key demands are a revision of shift and uniform allowances, implementation of a distinct salary structure for nurses, an increase in core duty allowances, large-scale recruitment of nursing staff, and the establishment of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
Nurses give reason for strike
Rilwan emphasised that the strike was driven by the frustration of nurses across the country, not a top-down directive from union leaders.
“This strike wasn’t decided by just the leadership. Our members made it clear that they’ve had enough. They are not worried about ‘no work, no pay’ threats because, frankly, the current pay isn’t even sufficient. They’re willing to make sacrifices,” he added.
He also noted that nurses have exercised patience for decades without resorting to industrial action.
“For over 40 years, we endured inadequate provisions—no gloves, no essential tools. Yet we kept working. This is the first strike action by nurses in decades,” he said.
The warning strike is set to conclude on August 5. However, the union has warned that if the government remains unresponsive, it will issue a fresh 21-day notice as required by labour law, which could lead to an indefinite nationwide strike.
“If nothing changes after those 21 days, we’ll begin a full, indefinite strike,” Rilwan cautioned.
Addressing concerns about potential non-participation by some hospitals, Rilwan clarified that only institutions not financially affiliated with NANNM-FHI would be exempt.
“No hospital is pulling out. But FMC Ebute-Metta and LUTH in Lagos haven’t been part of our association for three years due to internal matters, so they aren’t covered to join this strike. Every other federal facility across Lagos, other states, and the FCT is actively involved,” he affirmed.
