Nurses in Nigeria’s public hospitals have called off a seven-day warning strike after reaching a deal with the federal government. The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) announced the suspension on Saturday, August 3, following what it described as a constructive engagement with key government ministries.
The industrial action, which began on July 30, was sparked by longstanding grievances over inadequate pay, poor working conditions, and a shortage of personnel. Nurses across the country had threatened to escalate the strike into an indefinite one if their demands were not addressed within a week.
After a crucial meeting held on Friday with top government officials, including Minister of Health and Social Welfare Ali Pate and Minister of Labour and Employment Muhammad Dingyadi, the union said it received firm commitments from the government. These include clear timelines for the implementation of improved pay structures, better work environments, and enhanced recruitment of nursing professionals.
In a statement, the union said, “The government has responded to our demands and provided clear timelines for implementation. We will suspend the strike action while we closely monitor the execution of the agreed terms in the signed memorandum of understanding.”
Minister Pate earlier expressed confidence that the issues raised by the nurses would be addressed without delay, emphasizing the government’s recognition of the vital role healthcare workers play in national development. “We value our nurses and midwives. Their concerns are valid, and we are committed to ensuring a conducive work environment and equitable remuneration,” Pate said.
One of the key outcomes of the negotiations was the agreement that no nurse who participated in the strike would face disciplinary action. This provision was essential in building trust and encouraging a return to work.
The nurses’ decision to suspend the strike has brought relief to public hospitals that had been grappling with a severe shortage of personnel over the past week.
As the nurses resume duties, NANNM has pledged to hold the government accountable to its promises, warning that failure to follow through could reignite industrial action in the future.
