Healthcare services across Nigeria faced major disruptions as nurses and midwives launched a seven-day strike at midnight on Tuesday, following the federal government’s failure to address their demands within a 15-day ultimatum.
The strike, organized by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), is expected to bring nursing services to a halt in federal medical centers, teaching hospitals, specialist facilities, and primary healthcare centers. Private hospitals, however, remain unaffected.
Why Are Nurses Striking?
The NANNM, representing about 25,000 members, expressed frustration over a recent salary review that failed to provide adequate on-call, night shift, and weekend allowances. The association is demanding:
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Higher wages reflecting current economic realities
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The creation of a dedicated Department of Nursing under the Ministry of Health
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Improved working conditions, including better equipment and safety measures
Impact on Healthcare Services
With nurses withdrawing their services, hospitals nationwide are bracing for severe disruptions. Emergency wards, maternity units, and general outpatient services are expected to be hit hardest, leaving patients in limbo.
“We gave the government ample time to act, but our concerns were ignored,” a NANNM representative stated. “This strike is a last resort to demand dignity and fair treatment for nurses who keep Nigeria’s healthcare system running.”
Government Response
So far, the federal government has not issued an official statement on the strike. However, health officials are reportedly in emergency talks to prevent a prolonged crisis.
If no resolution is reached within the seven-day strike period, NANNM has not ruled out an indefinite work stoppage, which could paralyze Nigeria’s already strained public health sector.
What’s Next?
Patients are being urged to seek care at private hospitals where possible, though costs may be prohibitive for many. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on the government to negotiate with nurses before the healthcare system faces a total breakdown.
