Nigerian nurses at federal health facilities who are members of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) have begun a seven-day warning strike today, despite the Federal Government’s last-minute attempts at negotiations. According to National Chairman Morakinyo Rilwan, the government was given a 15-day ultimatum on July 14 but did not act on it.
The demands included mass recruitment, a nursing department in the Health Ministry, improved shift and uniform allowances, a distinct salary structure, and an increase in core duty allowance.
“As far as we are concerned, there has been no communication from the government to this moment. That is why we are saying the strike is going on, and nothing is stopping it”, He said.
“Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time.
“Fifteen days is enough for them to call us for negotiations. It is because they are not sensitive to the welfare of the masses. That’s why they allowed 15 good days to elapse.”
Citing more than 40 years of neglect, Rilwan underlined that the walkout was led by members. He went on to say that nurses were ready to suffer “no work, no pay” repercussions and that, should a resolution not be achieved, the situation will escalate to a 21-day ultimatum and an indefinite strike.
Only hospitals with no active financial members, such as LUTH and FMC Ebute-Metta, will not take part, he explained. This includes all other federal entities around the country.
