“Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time. Fifteen days is enough,” NANNM-FHI National Chairman said.
Healthcare services across Nigeria face major disruption as members of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives–Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) commenced a seven-day nationwide warning strike on Wednesday.
The strike began after the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government demanding improvements in welfare and working conditions.
Despite the looming shutdown, the nurses say they will not suspend the action—even if the government calls for negotiations.
National Chairman of NANNM-FHI, Morakinyo Rilwan, told PUNCH on Tuesday, “Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time. Fifteen days is enough.”
The union is demanding an upward review of shift and uniform allowances, a dedicated salary structure for nurses, increased core duty allowance, mass employment of nurses, and the creation of a nursing department in the Federal Ministry of Health.
“For over 40 years, nurses have endured poor working conditions,” Rilwan said. “This strike was initiated by members, and they are ready to face the consequences.”
He warned that if no resolution is reached after the seven-day action, a fresh 21-day ultimatum would be issued ahead of an indefinite strike.