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Tensions Remain High as Nigerian Nurses’ Strike Continues Amid Ongoing Negotiations
On Friday, August 1st, 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, met with the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and representatives from the Ministry of Labor. The closed-door meeting was part of urgent negotiations following a warning strike that began earlier in the week.
The strike, which was triggered by the federal government’s inaction on a 15-day ultimatum issued by the union on July 14, stems from long-standing grievances. These include inadequate working conditions, poor remuneration, and the government’s failure to address systemic issues within the public health sector.
According to union representatives, the strike is set to continue until August 5th unless concrete actions are taken. Some of the critical demands include better welfare packages, improved staffing, the creation of more leadership roles for nurses within the Ministry of Health, and investment in basic facilities and equipment. Alarmingly, despite Nigeria producing over 10,000 nurses annually, public hospitals remain critically understaffed—forcing professionals to improvise under strenuous conditions.
Live from Abuja, correspondent Aishad Salu reported that while the meeting has officially ended, no immediate resolution was reached. Union leaders confirmed that they are reviewing the government’s proposal internally. A final decision on whether to call off the strike is expected after consultations with the union’s National Executive Council. A public statement is scheduled for release by Monday.
Amid the uncertainty, both health ministry officials and union representatives remain cautiously optimistic. However, as of now, the strike continues across public health institutions nationwide.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
