NANNM-FHI Insists Nationwide Nurses’ Strike Still Ongoing, Denies Suspension Claims

The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives – Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) has formally dismissed reports suggesting that its ongoing seven-day nationwide warning strike has been suspended.

In a statement on Friday, the National Public Relations Officer of the union, Mr. Omomo Tibiebi, clarified that the strike, which commenced on Wednesday, July 30, remains fully in effect. His comments followed media reports indicating that the industrial action had been called off after a meeting with the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.

According to Tibiebi, the strike was declared by the union and can only be suspended by its leadership, not by the minister or any other government official.

“We wish to state clearly that the strike has not been suspended. While a meeting did take place with the Honourable Minister earlier today, the claim that the strike has been called off is misleading. The Coordinating Minister does not have the authority to unilaterally suspend an action declared by the union,” Tibiebi stated.

The union is pressing for the implementation of several long-standing demands, including:

• An upward review of shift and uniform allowances
• Introduction of a distinct salary structure for nurses
• Increase in core duty allowances
• Large-scale recruitment of nurses across federal health institutions
• Creation of a Directorate of Nursing Services within the Federal Ministry of Health

Tibiebi further disclosed that the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) will convene on Saturday, August 2, to review the Federal Government’s proposals and determine the union’s next steps.

“The NEC will evaluate the commitments made by the government and decide whether they meet the expectations and needs of our members. Until that decision is made, the strike continues,” he added.

Meanwhile, healthcare delivery across federal hospitals has been significantly affected. Reports from various institutions indicate that essential services are running at minimal capacity. Several wards remain deserted, and many patients have been discharged due to inadequate nursing staff. In some facilities, only emergency services are operational, while others have scaled down or shut operations entirely.

The union has urged its members to remain united and steadfast as it continues engagement with the government to ensure the welfare and professional recognition of nurses nationwide.