Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, on Friday held a crucial closed-door meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and officials from the Federal Ministry of Labour. The meeting is part of efforts to resolve the nationwide warning strike currently paralyzing services across public hospitals.
The industrial action, which began on July 29, 2025, followed the Federal Government’s alleged failure to respond to a 15-day ultimatum issued by the nursing union on July 14. The warning strike is scheduled to continue until August 5, unless urgent intervention brings a breakthrough.
The strike has affected healthcare delivery in federal hospitals and other public health institutions nationwide, as nurses and midwives demand immediate improvements to their welfare, working conditions, and remuneration.
NANNM National President, Comrade Morakinyo Rilwan, faulted the government’s silence and lack of proactive engagement prior to the strike.
> “The government had ample time to respond. Unfortunately, there was no meaningful communication during the window we provided. That is why the strike continues without interruption,” Rilwan said.
Among the union’s core demands are:
A revised shift andT uniform allowance
A separate salary structure for nurses
Improved core duty allowances
Mass recruitment of nurses to address workforce shortages
The establishment of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health
Rilwan emphasized that the decision to strike was driven by long-standing frustrations among rank-and-file nurses, not just union executives.
> “This is a collective cry for justice and respect for the vital role nurses play in Nigeria’s healthcare system,” he added.
While the Friday meeting signals a potential step toward dialogue, union officials have maintained that the strike will not be called off until tangible commitments are made by the Federal Government.
As talks continue, Nigerians are urged to expect limited services at public health facilities, even as pressure mounts on the government to avert a full-scale healthcare crisis.
