Nurses Embark on Seven-Day Warning Strike, Reject FG Talks

Nigerian nurses under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives–Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) have begun a seven-day warning strike today, July 30, 2025. The strike follows a failed negotiation with the Federal Government over its demands.

Key Demands

• Upward Review of Shift and Uniform Allowances: Nurses are seeking an increase in their shift and uniform allowances to reflect the current economic realities.
• Separate Salary Structure: The nurses are demanding a separate salary structure that recognizes their unique role in the healthcare system.
• Increased Core Duty Allowance: Nurses want an increase in their core duty allowance to compensate for their critical role in patient care.
• Mass Recruitment of Nurses: The nurses are calling for mass recruitment to address the shortage of nursing staff in hospitals.
• Establishment of a Department of Nursing: The nurses want a department of nursing established at the Federal Ministry of Health to oversee nursing affairs.

Strike Details

• Duration: The warning strike will last for seven days, after which the nurses will give the government a 21-day ultimatum before proceeding on an indefinite strike.
• Participation: The strike has garnered widespread support from nurses across the country, with hospitals in Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory, and other states participating.
• Government Response: Despite the strike, the Federal Government has not made any significant overtures to the nurses, leading to the escalation of the industrial action.

Implications

• Healthcare Disruption: The strike is likely to disrupt healthcare services in hospitals, affecting patients who require urgent medical attention.
• Economic Impact: The strike may also have economic implications, particularly if it leads to a prolonged disruption of healthcare services.