Nurses, Midwives Have Called Off Strike, Says Minister

Nigeria’s Nurses’ Strike Ends Amid Relief and Lingering Doubts

After days of nationwide disruption in public health services, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has officially suspended its industrial action. The announcement was made on August 1, 2025, by Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Ali Pate, following a closed-door meeting with union leaders. However, the union's decision to remain silent on the details of the resolution has sparked a mix of public emotions ranging from relief to skepticism.

How the Strike Began

The strike was rooted in long-standing grievances related to poor welfare and substandard working conditions for nurses in federal health institutions. NANNM had issued a 15-day ultimatum to the government on July 14, 2025, demanding:

• An upward review of shift and core duty allowances
• Adjustment of uniform allowance
• Implementation of a distinct salary structure
• Mass recruitment of nurses
• Creation of a dedicated department for nursing in the Federal Ministry of Health

When the government failed to respond meaningfully, the union launched a nationwide warning strike on July 29, 2025.

Timeline of Key Events

Date	Milestone
July 14, 2025	NANNM issues ultimatum to the Federal Government
July 28, 2025	Union finalizes plans for strike
July 29, 2025	Strike begins nationwide in public health facilities
July 31, 2025	House of Representatives urges suspension of strike
August 1, 2025	Health Minister announces strike suspension after closed-door talks

Public Response to the Suspension

The reaction to the end of the strike has varied widely across regions and demographics:

Patients & Families

Urban dwellers expressed relief as healthcare services began to resume. Social media was flooded with messages of gratitude toward nurses for advocating for better conditions without neglecting their patients.

Skepticism Persists

In rural areas where healthcare access is already limited, many remain doubtful. The union’s refusal to disclose the specifics of the agreement has stirred concerns about whether true change is underway or if political expediency trumped transparency.

Nurses

Some nurses are pleased to resume duty; others feel the strike ended too quickly, questioning whether their sacrifices led to tangible gains.

Political and Civic Voices

The House of Representatives had earlier urged nurses to end the strike out of “patriotic spirit,” while civil groups now demand sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure to avoid future disruptions.

Looking Ahead

The suspension of the strike provides short-term relief, but it doesn’t erase deeper systemic issues. Healthcare analysts warn that unless the government fulfills its promises and prioritizes long-term reforms, Nigeria could face recurring healthcare crises.

For now, the healing begins, with patients returning, nurses regrouping, and a nation waiting to see if promises will translate into progress.

 

-UPDATE AT THIS TIME-

Nurses deny suspending nationwide warning strike

 

Information reaching us at this time reveals that The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives–Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) has refuted claims that its ongoing seven-day nationwide warning strike has been suspended.

Key Points:

·       Recall, we told you earlier that the strike began on Wednesday to push for demands such as:

o   Revision of shift and uniform allowances

o   A distinct salary structure for nurses

o   Adjustment of core duty allowances

o   Mass recruitment of nurses

o   Creation of a Department of Nursing Services within the Federal Ministry of Health

·       Despite reports suggesting the strike was called off after a meeting with the Health Minister, Prof. Ali Pate, union leaders insist it is still ongoing.

·       The decision on whether to suspend the strike will be made after the union’s National Executive Council reviews government offers on Saturday.

·       The union emphasized that only it can declare the strike suspended, not the minister.

Impact:

Hospitals nationwide are experiencing staffing shortages, suspended services, and patients being discharged due to inadequate care. Some wards are completely shut down.