The Edo State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has expressed its support for the national leadership's decision to initiate a nationwide strike if the Federal Government does not address key issues affecting the nursing profession.
During a recent meeting that included Edo State executives and unit heads, the nurses outlined several demands which include the establishment of a dedicated Department of Nursing within the Federal Ministry of Health, an increase in professional allowances for nurses and midwives, and the inclusion of nursing representatives in health policy discussions.
Additional requests involve the formal recognition of Nurses’ Schemes of Service as approved in 2016, the enforcement of a National Industrial Court ruling from January 2012, and the settlement of outstanding salaries owed to staff of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria since January 2024.
Chairman of Edo NANNM, Francis Oliseh, emphasized the undervaluation of nurses in Nigeria compared to their counterparts in other countries.
He noted that the ultimatum for the Federal Government to respond to these demands expires on September 16, 2024, stating that the adherence to professional ethics and legal standards has been overlooked, pushing nurses to consider strike action.
Oliseh also called for the immediate reopening of the verification portal for nurses and midwives, which is crucial for those traveling abroad or renewing their registrations.
While acknowledging the efforts of Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki in implementing a 25% increase in the 2023 Consolidated Health Salary Structure for nurses, Oliseh pointed out that this is a rare occurrence among governors in Nigeria.
Vice Chairman Otaigbe Queen-Stella urged the Federal Government to enhance medical facilities and increase the nursing workforce to address gaps in healthcare delivery across the country.
