The National Association of Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector, has declared that its ongoing strike will not be suspended unless the federal government demonstrates concrete steps toward meeting key aspects of its demands.
Despite a meeting held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, with the Minister of Labour, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi—coinciding with the expiration of the union’s 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14—the association proceeded with its industrial action on Wednesday.
Speaking during a live interview on Channels Television on Thursday, the National Chairman of the association, Comrade Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, emphasized that nurses across the country would not be returning to work unless the government shows real commitment by addressing specific grievances.
When asked how the union would respond if the government requested a return to work before considering their demands, Rilwan replied: “That is always the government’s request — asking us to call off the strike before taking any action. But we are not comfortable with that approach. We must see evidence that part of our demands are being addressed before we can suspend the strike.”
Rilwan explained that the union had exhausted all avenues of dialogue before resorting to a strike. He noted that after giving the government ample time to respond to their concerns, including a seven-day warning strike, no tangible action was taken, forcing their hand.
He further stressed that nurses are not known for industrial action and that it was a decision taken with great reluctance.
“Nurses are naturally compassionate. We care deeply for our patients and prefer not to take actions that disrupt care delivery. However, we have waited far too long for our demands to be met. This strike is not our first choice — it is our last resort,” Rilwan stated.
He attributed the escalation to what he described as the government’s “insincerity and insensitivity” toward the plight of nurses.
“Before this strike can be suspended, there must be visible, actionable commitment from the government. Not just promises, but steps that prove they are serious,” he added.
The nurses’ demands include: A comprehensive review of the scheme of service for nurses
An upward review of existing allowances
Introduction of specialty allowances for specialist nurses
Increased employment of nurses in federal health institutions
Enhancement of remuneration packages
Creation of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health
Meanwhile, Minister of Labour Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, in a statement issued on Wednesday, urged the association to reconsider its position and suspend the strike. He described industrial action as a counterproductive method of resolving disputes and encouraged the union to embrace continued dialogue.
Dingyadi further disclosed that talks between the government and the union are scheduled to continue on Friday at the Federal Ministry of Health, where discussions will focus on resolving the contentious issues and charting a way forward.