Nigeria Nurses to Embark on Nationwide Strike, Issues Ultimatum
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) regarding stringent certificate verification guidelines.
The association disclosed this while stating that failure to meet their demands would result in a nationwide strike.
Recall that the nurses previously staged peaceful protests in Abuja and Lagos, demanding a review of the verification guidelines, which they believe will impede their ability to practice freely.
They also argue that the verification process should align with international standards, taking no more than 48 hours, as is the case in other countries.
The statement also calls for the immediate withdrawal of the new circular and the reopening of the verification portal without any conditions. The nurses emphasize that if their demands are not met, they will have no choice but to take industrial action.
In addition to the verification guidelines, the nurses are also demanding improved welfare, increased hazard allowance, better working conditions, and enhanced support for professional development opportunities.
The NANNM statement criticizes the NMCN registrar and other nursing leaders, accusing them of unaccountability and irresponsibility. It also calls for a review of the NMCN Establishment Act to ensure the regulatory body’s independence from the Federal Ministry of Health.
The nurses express solidarity with colleagues in Oyo, Ondo, and Bayelsa states, as well as other state chapters organizing protests nationwide. They have given the federal government until February 14, 2024, to meet their demands, failing which they will embark on nationwide protests.