Nurses dismiss FG’s claim of strike suspension, say industrial action still on

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has denied reports that it has called off its ongoing nationwide strike, contrary to an announcement by the federal government.

Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, told journalists in Abuja on Friday that the association had agreed to end its seven-day warning strike after a closed-door meeting with government officials.

However, NANNM’s National Chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan, insisted the minister’s claim was inaccurate.

“If it was the Minister who organized the strike, then he could call it off. As far as I’m concerned, the strike organized by the association is still ongoing. The Minister didn’t organize the strike, so he doesn’t have the authority to call it off.

“There are procedures to follow, if it is to be called off at all,” Rilwan said in a telephone interview.

The association has scheduled a general congress for Saturday, where members will review the outcome of discussions with the federal government and decide on the next steps.

The nurses embarked on the industrial action on Wednesday, citing poor pay, unpaid allowances, inadequate staffing, and unsafe working conditions. The warning strike followed the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued to the federal government.

The action has disrupted health services nationwide and comes amid ongoing tensions between the government and medical doctors over welfare concerns.

(DAILY TRUST)