The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) on July 29, 2025, commenced a seven-day warning strike despite appeals from the Federal Government, paralyzing healthcare services across public hospitals.
The action, announced on July 27, protests unpaid hazard allowances, delayed promotions, and the non-implementation of a 2023 agreement to hire 10,000 nurses, with only 2,000 recruited. Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate urged a return to negotiations, promising ₦5 billion for allowances, but NANNM insists on full compliance, citing 15 nurse deaths from overwork in 2024.
The strike affects 60% of Nigeria’s 250 public hospitals, with emergency services scaled back, prompting public outcry and private clinic surges. The government defends its fiscal constraints, with a 2025 health budget of ₦1.3 trillion covering only 4.7% of GDP, below the 15% Abuja Declaration target.
The narrative of labor unrest is critical, reflecting systemic neglect, but resolution depends on funding and trust-building, with a potential indefinite strike looming if demands remain unmet.