Abuja – The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has officially suspended its nationwide warning strike after reaching a formal agreement with the Federal Government. The strike, which began on July 30 and disrupted healthcare services across the country, ended following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the union and government officials.
The nurses’ demands focused on improved remuneration, allowances for shift duty and uniforms, better working conditions, and an urgent need to address severe staff shortages. They also called for the creation of a dedicated Department of Nursing Services within the Federal Ministry of Health.
In a decisive meeting held on August 1, top government officials, including Minister of Health Ali Pate and Minister of Labour Muhammad Dingyadi, met with union leaders to negotiate terms. The outcome was a signed agreement that outlines clear timelines for the government to implement the nurses’ key demands.
The National Executive Council of NANNM, led by President Haruna Mamman and Secretary T.A. Shettima, announced the suspension of the strike on August 2. They emphasized that the decision was taken in the interest of national health and based on assurances provided by the government. They also stated that no punitive action would be taken against any nurses—including interns and locum staff—who participated in the industrial action.
During the strike, public healthcare services were severely affected. Many hospitals were forced to suspend outpatient services, cancel appointments, and operate with limited staff. The disruption brought renewed attention to the pressing challenges in Nigeria’s health system, including the mass migration of trained nurses to other countries due to poor working conditions. Reports indicate that over 42,000 Nigerian nurses have left the country in the past three years.
While services are expected to return to normal gradually, the union warned that it would not hesitate to resume industrial action if the government fails to honor the terms of the agreement. NANNM has committed to monitoring implementation closely to ensure all demands are met within the stipulated timelines.
The government, on its part, has pledged to take immediate action on the agreed-upon points and acknowledged the critical role nurses play in the healthcare sector. The resolution of the strike is seen as a significant step toward stabilizing healthcare services and improving the welfare of frontline health workers in Nigeria.