By Nafisat Makinde
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has called off its nationwide strike, which commenced on July 29, 2025. The announcement was made by the Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, on Friday during a press briefing after a closed-door meeting with the union’s leadership in Abuja.
According to Professor Pate, “The decision to end the strike came after both parties reached an understanding during the negotiation process.” Although the specifics of the agreement were not disclosed, union leaders refrained from commenting when approached by journalists following the meeting.
The nurses had initiated the strike over what they termed the government’s inadequate response to a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14. The industrial action, which disrupted services in public health facilities across the country, was originally set to continue until August 5, 2025.
In a statement before the agreement, NANNM’s National Chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan, expressed frustration with the government’s lack of response. “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.”
The strike was sparked by several key demands, including:
- Separate Salary Structure: A separate salary structure tailored to their profession
- Allowances Review: An upward review of shift and uniform allowances
- Core Duty Allowance: An increase in core duty allowances
- Mass Recruitment: Mass recruitment of nurses to address staff shortages
- Dedicated Nursing Department: Establishment of a dedicated nursing department in the Federal Ministry of Health
The suspension of the strike is expected to bring relief to patients and healthcare facilities affected by the industrial action. Professor Pate confirmed that the Federal Government is committed to addressing the nurses’ concerns and ensuring the healthcare system functions optimally.
“We are pleased that we could come to a mutually beneficial agreement,” Professor Pate said, adding that the government would work to implement the agreed-upon terms.
The development marks a significant breakthrough in the negotiations between the NANNM and the Federal Government, and it is hoped that the agreement will lead to improved working conditions and healthcare services in Nigeria.
