By Ghazali Ibrahim
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has given the Federal Government a seven-day notice to address critical issues affecting the profession, warning of a nationwide strike that could cripple services in federal health institutions.
The association, in a statement signed by National Secretary Enya Osinachi and President Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan on Monday, said the decision followed an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on July 10 in Abuja.
NANNM’s demands include the gazetting of the scheme of service approved in 2016, full implementation of the National Industrial Court judgment of January 27, 2012, upward review of professional allowances for nurses and midwives, employment of more nursing personnel, and improved provision of medical equipment in health facilities.
The association said the action became necessary after a 15-day ultimatum, issued on July 14, expired without any meaningful response from the Federal Government or the Federal Ministry of Health.
“The strike, starting at 12 midnight on Tuesday, July 29, will involve total service withdrawal across all Federal health institutions. Nurses nationwide have been asked to comply fully and stand in solidarity,” the statement read.
NANNM reaffirmed that nurses and midwives provide between 60–70 per cent of hospital services and deserve improved welfare, fair allowances, and recognition for their critical role in healthcare delivery.
The association also rejected a June 27 circular from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, describing it as unfair to nurses, and demanded the immediate reversal and adjustment of allowances including shift, call duty, and retention.
NANNM urged the government to engage in proactive dialogue, stressing that a well-supported nursing workforce is key to ensuring quality healthcare and sustaining public health systems across the country.
