The University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan’s branch of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), commenced a seven-day warning strike on Wednesday. This follows a directive from the association’s national body, which declared the action after long-standing concerns over welfare and professional recognition were allegedly ignored by the Federal Government.
Mrs. Olufunmilola Faminu, the local leader, issued an emotional appeal to patients, saying, “Sadly, we are so concerned about our patients; we don’t intend to leave them stranded without our care. But we have no choice.”
Demands made by NANNM—at both national and branch levels—include an increase in recruitment, enhanced medical infrastructure, dedicated nursing administration within the health ministry, standardized training opportunities, and a comprehensive review of financial allowances.
Notably, only nurses have downed tools as part of this coordinated action, meaning other healthcare professionals are still present for emergencies. The strike, which started at midnight July 29, is scheduled to conclude August 5, though leadership warns that unresolved demands could provoke an indefinite strike after a 21-day warning.
The strike confirms deep-seated issues within the nursing profession and signals a turning point for union activism across Nigerian health institutions.