The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives – Federal Health Institutions (NANNM-FHI) has commenced a nationwide warning strike following the Federal Government’s failure to meet demands for improved welfare, fair allowances, and better working conditions across federal hospitals.
The industrial action, which began at midnight on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, follows the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued by the union on July 14.
National Chairman of NANNM-FHI, Morakinyo Rilwan, confirmed the development during a media briefing, stating that the government did not engage the union during the negotiation window. He emphasized that the strike will continue as planned, regardless of any last-minute overtures from the authorities.
“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 stated.
The union’s demands include an upward review of shift and uniform allowances, implementation of a distinct salary structure for nurses, increased core duty allowances, mass recruitment of nurses, and the establishment of a dedicated department for nursing within the Federal Ministry of Health.
Rilwan clarified that the decision to strike stemmed directly from the nurses themselves, reflecting widespread frustration within the profession.
“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 said. “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.”
He also criticized the prolonged neglect of the nursing profession, noting that despite four decades of poor conditions—including shortages of gloves and basic medical supplies—this is the first nationwide strike by federal nurses in over 40 years.
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The warning strike is scheduled to end on Monday, August 5. However, NANNM-FHI has warned that if the government remains unresponsive, a fresh 21-day ultimatum will be issued, paving the way for a total and indefinite strike.
“If the 21 days elapse and there is no reasonable response from the government, we would embark on a total and indefinite strike,” Rilwan warned.
In response to concerns that some hospitals may be exempt from the action, Rilwan clarified that only non-financial members of the union, such as the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute-Metta, and Lagos University Teaching Hospital, are not participating due to internal issues.
“All other federal hospitals across Lagos, other states, and the Federal Capital Territory are joining the strike,” he affirmed.
The strike is expected to significantly impact service delivery across federal health institutions, unless urgent steps are taken to address the nurses’ longstanding grievances.