Nigerian nurses have called off their four-day nationwide warning strike following successful negotiations with federal government representatives.
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives announced the suspension on Saturday after its National Executive Council reviewed concessions made during Friday’s meeting with health ministry officials and other stakeholders.
Assistant Secretary-General Chidi Aligwe confirmed to our correspondent that nurses should resume work immediately, stating: “The strike has been suspended.”
The industrial action, which began Wednesday, sought improved working conditions including higher shift allowances, a dedicated nursing salary structure, increased recruitment, and better uniform provisions. A union circular signed by President Haruna Mamman and General Secretary T.A. Shettima cited government commitments to address these demands within agreed timelines as reason for the suspension.
“While acknowledging positive government steps, we’ll closely monitor implementation,” the circular stated, warning against victimization of striking members. The association thanked nurses for their solidarity during the work stoppage that affected services across federal health facilities.
The resolution comes as Nigeria’s health sector continues grappling with staff shortages and poor working conditions that have driven thousands of medical professionals abroad. Authorities now face pressure to fulfill promises made to prevent further disruptions in the fragile healthcare system.
