Nigeria’s nurses, through their union, have taken the bold step of initiating a nationwide strike—a warning strike that speaks volumes about decades of unmet demands. But what led to this drastic action? Here’s a detailed breakdown from the nurses’ perspective.
1. Ultimatums and Broken Promises
The strike followed a 15-day ultimatum issued by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM-FHI) starting July 14, 2025. Despite clear timelines, the Federal Government failed to engage meaningfully or respond.
- “No communication from the government… even if they call today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike,” said NANNM national chairman Rilwan Morakinyo.
2. A Long-Standing List of Grievances
Nurses are demanding implementations, not new policies:
- Gazetting of the scheme of service approved since 2016
- Execution of a 2012 National Industrial Court judgment
- Creation of a Department of Nursing in the Federal Ministry of Health
- A separate salary structure recognizing nurses’ unique workload
- Upward adjustments of shift, uniform, and core-duty allowances
- Mass recruitment, fair postings, and consultancy recognition
3. Unsafe Work Conditions
Beyond pay, nurses highlight severe resource scarcity:
- Working without gloves, syringes, or gauze
- Patients suffering due to lack of basic supplies
- Turned into survivalists while serving on the frontlines
4. No Half-Measures—They Needed Impact
This strike is total. Skeletal or emergency services were not offered:
- 74 federal hospitals, teaching centres, specialist hospitals, and PHCs nationwide were affected Vanguard NewsTheNicheNg.
5. Public Support and Solidarity
The strike quickly garnered support from civil groups like the Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) in Oyo State, calling it both “justified and long overdue.” They emphasized that nurses’ demands are not self-serving, but essential for Nigeria’s healthcare survival. Sahara Reporters
6. Outcome and Resolution
Following the seven-day warning strike, the nurses suspended it after securing an agreement with the government.
- The government provided clear timelines for implementing the demands.
- Reassured that no nurse would be penalized for participating in the strike Reuters.
Why It Mattered
- Demands were long-overdue, not impulsive.
- Nurses had repeatedly pursued peaceful, administrative channels—but were ignored.
- Their decisive action was aimed at preserving Nigeria’s healthcare system, and preventing further collapse.