The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) has issued a seven-day strike notice to the Federal Government, demanding improved welfare, fair allowances, and better working conditions for nurses nationwide.
The notice, jointly signed by National Secretary, Nurse Enya Osinachi, and National President, Nurse Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, was released in Abuja on Monday. The decision followed an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on July 10, also in the capital.
NANNM-FHI stated that the move is aimed at encouraging proactive dialogue on the pressing challenges confronting nurses in the country. The action follows the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14, which, according to the association, received no meaningful response from the Federal Government or the Federal Ministry of Health.
“The strike, starting 12 midnight on Tuesday, July 29, will involve total service withdrawal across all Federal health institutions,” the statement read.
“Nurses nationwide have been asked to comply fully and stand in solidarity.”
Demands and Grievances
NANNM-FHI reaffirmed the critical role of nurses in healthcare delivery, noting that they account for an estimated 60 to 70 per cent of services provided in hospitals. The association emphasized that such contributions warrant better welfare, fair treatment, and greater recognition.
The union also rejected a circular issued on June 27 by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission (NSIWC), describing it as unjust and counterproductive. It demanded the immediate reversal of the circular and adjustments to various allowances, including:
Shift Allowance
Call Duty Allowance
Hazard Allowance
Retention Allowance
Appeal for Engagement
The association called on the Federal Government to engage constructively and urgently with its leadership to resolve the issues at hand.
“A well-supported nursing workforce is essential for achieving quality healthcare outcomes and maintaining public health across all federal medical institutions,” the statement emphasized.
NANNM-FHI warned that unless concrete steps are taken within the 7-day notice period, it will proceed with the planned nationwide strike, which could severely disrupt healthcare services in federal institutions.
