FG Begs Nurses, Midwives to Suspend Planned Strike, Embrace Dialogue

Speaking after a meeting held on Tuesday, the Minister emphasised that strike actions are not the ideal approach to resolving industrial disputes. He encouraged the association to remain open to dialogue, assuring them that the government is actively working to address their grievances.

“The government is committed to finding a lasting resolution to the concerns raised,” Dingyadi said, noting that discussions between the government and the union would resume Friday at the Ministry of Health.

According to Patience Onuobia, the Head of Press and Public Relations on Wednesday, the proposed strike by the health workers follows ongoing dissatisfaction over working conditions, remuneration, and welfare.

The Labour Ministry hopes continued dialogue will prevent a disruption in essential healthcare services across the country.

Nurses under the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives – Federal Health Institutions Sectors (NANNM-FHI) have announced a seven-day warning strike starting following the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued on 14 July, 2025, demanding improved welfare, fair allowances, and better working conditions for nurses across federal health institutions.

On Tuesday, speaking to Channels TV, the National Chairman of NANNM-FHI, Morakinyo Rilwan stated that the Federal Government failed to engage meaningfully with the association during the window provided.

“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. Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time,” Rilwan noted.

The nurses’ demands include the upward review of shift allowance, adjustment of uniform allowance, implementation of a separate salary structure for nurses, increased core duty allowance, mass employment of nurses, and the creation of a dedicated nursing department in the Federal Ministry of Health.

“This strike is not initiated by the leadership of the union; it was initiated by the members, and they said this is what they want,” he stated.

“They are not even contemplating ‘no work, no pay,’ because that is the only language the government can use, and they are ready—because the money they are taking is not even enough for them. They are ready to sacrifice that as long as this strike continues.”