Nigerian Nurses Launch Nationwide Strike, Crippling Federal Health Institutions.
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) commenced a seven-day nationwide warning strike at midnight on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, halting nursing services across 74 federal hospitals, medical centers, specialist hospitals, and primary healthcare facilities in Nigeria. The strike, triggered by the Federal Government’s failure to address long-standing demands, is set to disrupt healthcare delivery significantly, with no emergency or skeletal services provided during this period.
The decision follows a 15-day ultimatum issued by NANNM on July 14, 2025, which expired without government action. The union’s demands include implementing the 2016 nurses’ scheme of service, enforcing a 2012 National Industrial Arbitration Court judgment, reviewing professional allowances, creating a dedicated Department of Nursing in the Federal Ministry of Health, and addressing critical staff shortages and inadequate equipment. Nurses are also demanding the withdrawal of a June 27, 2025, circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, which they deem discriminatory, and an increase in uniform allowances, unchanged at N20,000 annually for over 20 years.
NANNM’s emergency National Executive Council meeting on July 10, 2025, in Abuja, finalized the strike action, with circulars signed by National Secretary Enya Osinachi, President Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, 2nd National Vice President Orolu Sesan, and Deputy General Secretary Elder Otaru Daniel Shaibu. The union has urged the public to seek alternative healthcare arrangements, as federal hospitals face paralysis due to the withdrawal of nurses, who make up 60–70% of hospital staff.
Healthcare experts warn of severe disruptions, compounded by Nigeria’s ongoing healthcare challenges, including the recent exodus of 300 doctors from Jigawa State between February and July 2025. Public sentiment, reflected in posts on X, expresses frustration with the government’s inaction, with users highlighting nurses’ overworked conditions and low pay.
Negotiations between NANNM and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare have reached a deadlock, with no meaningful dialogue initiated. If demands remain unmet, NANNM has hinted at escalating actions post-strike. The public is advised to monitor updates as the situation unfolds.
