Health Minister Holds Private Talks With Striking Nurses, Midwives
Abuja, Nigeria – The Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has held a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and officials from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, in a bid to resolve the ongoing industrial action by nurses and midwives across the country.
The meeting, which took place in Abuja on Monday, is part of continuing negotiations aimed at addressing the concerns raised by the union, which commenced a seven-day warning strike on July 29, 2025, after the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government on July 14.
Union leaders had accused the government of failing to engage meaningfully with their demands, which include better wages, improved working conditions, prompt payment of promotion arrears, and resolution of staffing shortages in public health facilities.
Strike Impact
The industrial action has disrupted services at federal and state-owned hospitals, especially affecting outpatient services, maternal health units, and routine immunisation schedules. While emergency departments remain functional in many institutions, the union has warned that the impact could worsen if their concerns remain unaddressed.
According to NANNM, the warning strike is scheduled to last until August 5, 2025, but may be escalated to an indefinite strike if the government fails to meet key demands during the negotiation window.
Government Reaction
Following the closed-door session, no official statement has been issued by either the Ministry of Health or the union. However, sources familiar with the discussions described the talks as “frank and ongoing,” with both parties reportedly agreeing to reconvene for further dialogue within the week.
The Ministry of Labour had earlier urged the nurses to return to work while negotiations continue, stressing that industrial harmony is vital for the stability of the country’s health sector.
Observers say the outcome of the talks could set the tone for future negotiations between the government and other health sector unions who are also pressing for reforms.
