JUST-IN: Nurses Suspend Strike After Federal Govt’s Commitment To Demands

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has suspended its nationwide warning strike following the federal government’s commitment to address the union’s long-standing demands.

In a circular issued after an emergency virtual meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC) held on Saturday, the union said it reached the decision after a careful review of the outcomes of a negotiation meeting with key government officials held on Friday, August 1.

The meeting, convened by the federal government, had in attendance the Ministers of Health, Labour and Employment, and other key stakeholders. It culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining clear timelines for the implementation of nine core demands presented by the union.

According to the NANNM NEC, the decision to suspend the strike was taken in the spirit of dialogue and good faith, following assurances from the government and its commitment to a time-bound implementation framework.

“NEC acknowledges the positive steps taken by the Federal Government in responding to the nine core demands of NANNM, particularly the commitment to clear timelines for implementation,” the circular read.

The circular, signed by NANNM President, Com. Haruna Mammanand, and General Secretary, Dr. A. Shettima, has directed its state councils to mobilise members for the immediate resumption of work nationwide, while the national leadership is tasked with monitoring the government’s compliance with the terms of the MoU.

The NEC also issued a stern warning against any form of victimization of nurses, whether permanent, intern, or locum, who participated in the strike, stressing that all members acted within the rights of organised labour.

The association expressed appreciation to its members for their unwavering commitment, solidarity, and discipline throughout the duration of the seven-day warning strike, which was triggered by years of unresolved welfare and professional issues.

The warning strike, which began on July 29, 2025, had significantly disrupted healthcare services in public hospitals across the country.