Nigeria’s Health Minister, Professor Ali Pate, held a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) on Friday, as the warning strike by nurses across public health institutions enters its final stretch.
The strike, which began on July 29 following an unmet 15-day ultimatum, is expected to continue until August 5, with the union citing poor working conditions and lack of government responsiveness as key grievances.
At the heart of the nurses’ demands are improved allowances, employment of more nurses, a dedicated department in the Health Ministry, and a separate salary structure to reflect their core duties.
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NANNM Chairman Morakinyo Rilwan said the government squandered the opportunity for dialogue: “Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time.”
The union insists its decision was not arbitrary but a direct response to long-standing frustrations shared by members nationwide.
Negotiations have involved the Ministries of Health and Labour, but union leaders claim meaningful engagement has yet to occur.
Unless government action is forthcoming, nurses say they will not return to work, fuelling concern over the strain already placed on Nigeria’s fragile public healthcare system.
