Nurses under the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives–Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) have confirmed that their planned seven-day warning strike will commence on Wednesday.
Despite the possibility of last-minute intervention, the union insists the strike will go ahead as scheduled, citing the Federal Government’s failure to engage with their demands after a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14.
Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, National Chairman of NANNM-FHI, Comrade Morakinyo Rilwan, criticized the government’s silence, describing it as a sign of disregard for the welfare of healthcare workers and patients.
“We gave them enough time. Fifteen days was sufficient to initiate talks. There’s been no communication whatsoever. Even if they call now, the strike will proceed,” Rilwan said.
The union’s key demands include a review of shift and uniform allowances, the creation of a distinct salary structure for nurses, improved core duty allowances, recruitment of more nurses, and the establishment of a nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
Rilwan explained that the strike action originated from rank-and-file members frustrated by years of neglect. “For over four decades, nurses have endured poor working conditions—no gloves, no equipment—and we’ve never gone on strike. But this time, members insisted. They are ready to make sacrifices, even if it means forfeiting their pay,” he said.
The union leader added that if the government fails to respond after the warning strike, the association would issue another 21-day ultimatum, in line with labour laws, before embarking on a total and indefinite strike.
He also addressed reports of non-participation by some institutions, clarifying that only facilities without active, dues-paying members of the association—such as FMC Ebute-Metta and Lagos University Teaching Hospital—will be excluded. “All other federal hospitals across the states, including those in Abuja, are joining the strike,” he confirmed.
