Nigerian Nurses And Midwives Have Called Off Strike – Health Minister Ali Pate

The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has called off its seven-day warning strike.

The Minister of Health, Ali Pate, who disclosed this while speaking to reporters after a closed-door meeting on Friday, said the union decided to end the industrial action after reaching an agreement with the federal government.

However, union leaders present at the meeting declined to comment publicly on the outcome.

The nurses had gone on strike on July 29, 2025, accusing the government of ignoring their 15-day ultimatum, which was issued on July 14.

The warning strike affected public health institutions across the country and was initially set to continue until August 5.

The strike stemmed from long-standing issues related to nurses’ welfare and poor working conditions in federal hospitals.

The union had demanded better allowances, improved salaries, mass recruitment of nurses, and a separate salary structure tailored specifically for the nursing profession.

They also called for the establishment of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.

The Union chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan had earlier criticized the government for failing to engage in meaningful talks during the negotiation window.

He emphasized that the strike wasn’t just a top-down decision, but a collective response from frustrated members who felt neglected for years.

Though the strike has now been called off, it’s unclear whether all demands were fully met.

The Health Minister did not provide details of the agreement, and the union leadership has yet to release an official statement.

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