Nigerian Nurses Suspend 7-Day Warning Strike After Agreement with Government

The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has officially suspended its nationwide warning strike following a closed-door meeting with representatives of the federal government in Abuja.

The Minister of Health, Ali Pate, confirmed the development on Friday while briefing reporters, stating that key resolutions were reached that led to the suspension of the industrial action.

“We had a productive meeting, and I can confirm that the strike has been called off following significant agreements with the union,” Pate said.

However, leaders of the nurses’ union declined to comment or provide specific details of the agreement reached.

The seven-day warning strike, which commenced on July 29, had affected medical services across several federal healthcare institutions nationwide. The action followed a 15-day ultimatum earlier issued on July 14, demanding urgent government intervention in areas including poor remuneration, unpaid allowances, and substandard working conditions.

The union’s National Chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan, previously criticized the government for consistently ignoring the plight of nurses and midwives, stating that the strike was a last resort after failed engagements.

“State Councils are directed to mobilize members across all levels for the warning strike, scheduled to commence once the ultimatum expires at midnight on July 29, 2025,” the memo read.

Though the strike was originally set to last until August 5, its early suspension signals a possible shift toward resolution, though full details of the agreement are yet to be made public.