The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has issued a strong warning to healthcare institutions and government bodies, cautioning them against any form of victimisation or punitive measures directed at its members following the recent suspension of their nationwide strike.
This warning came in the aftermath of a prolonged industrial action that was called off after intense negotiations between the association and relevant stakeholders. The strike had been staged over issues bordering on poor working conditions, inadequate remuneration, lack of equipment, and the government's failure to address long-standing demands within the healthcare sector.
In a press release made available to the media, the association emphasized that while the strike was suspended in the interest of public health and service continuity, they will not tolerate any retaliatory actions targeted at nurses who participated in the protest. They stressed that victimising health workers for exercising their lawful rights would not only be unjust but also detrimental to morale within the profession.
NANNM reiterated that the decision to down tools had been a collective action rooted in the consistent neglect of nurses’ welfare by authorities across various states. The association added that suspending the strike was an act of good faith and should not be misinterpreted as weakness or a license to intimidate workers.
The leadership of the association further disclosed that they have received disturbing reports from different healthcare facilities indicating that some nurses are being threatened with job termination or disciplinary action for their involvement in the strike. They described such threats as unacceptable and a violation of labour rights under the Nigerian Constitution and international labour laws.
To prevent further escalation, the association called on hospital administrators, state governments, and health boards to halt any such actions immediately. They warned that if any nurse or midwife is punished unjustly, the association would not hesitate to resume industrial action and take legal action against the perpetrators.
The association also used the opportunity to commend its members nationwide for their resilience, unity, and peaceful conduct during the strike. They acknowledged the sacrifices made by nurses in the face of harsh economic realities and a high-risk working environment, particularly amid ongoing healthcare system challenges.
Furthermore, NANNM urged the government to begin immediate implementation of the agreements reached during negotiation to avoid future breakdowns in industrial harmony. They emphasized that healthcare workers should be treated as essential service providers deserving of respect, fair compensation, and improved working conditions.
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has also backed the association’s warning, urging government institutions to act with restraint and fairness. They called on all parties to honour the spirit of dialogue and cooperation that led to the suspension of the strike.
As the situation unfolds, public health analysts and civil society groups are watching closely, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the welfare of healthcare workers and maintain peace within the nation’s already overstretched health system.
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