By Nwaneri Uche
The Federal Government has been given a seven-day ultimatum by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), demanding better working conditions, equitable compensation, and improved welfare for nurses. The notice was issued by President Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan and signed by National Secretary Enya Osinachi in Abuja on Monday.
This decision followed an emergency National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja on July 10. According to NANNM-FHI, the move aims to encourage proactive dialogue on critical issues affecting its members. The letter emphasized that the action became necessary due to the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Health’s failure to respond meaningfully to a previous 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14.
As a result, NANNM has declared a nationwide strike beginning at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, July 29. The strike will involve the complete withdrawal of services by nurses in all Federal health facilities. The statement read, in part, that “nationwide, nurses have been requested to fully comply and stand in solidarity.”
NANNM-FHI reinforced the crucial role nurses play in the healthcare system, noting that they deliver between 60 and 70 percent of hospital services. The association called for greater welfare, fair treatment, and recognition for their vital contributions.
It also rejected a circular issued by the National Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission on June 27, demanding its reversal and a review of allowances such as shift duty, call duty, and retention.
The organisation further urged the Federal Government to engage constructively, stressing that a well-supported nursing workforce is essential for achieving quality healthcare outcomes and sustaining public health across all Federal medical institutions in Nigeria.