Ondo nurses proceed on indefinite strike over poor welfare

 

Nurses in Ondo State, under the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), have announced an indefinite strike set to begin on Friday, January 31, 2025, citing the government’s neglect of their welfare despite their crucial role in the healthcare system.

Felix Orobode, the state chairman of NANNM, addressed journalists in Akure, the state capital, on Thursday, expressing frustration over the government’s failure to address the pressing concerns of nurses. He emphasised the critical role nurses play in healthcare across Ondo State’s 18 local government areas, noting that many nurses assume multiple roles, such as acting as doctors, pharmacists, health information officers and even security personnel, particularly in general hospitals and health centres.

Orobode criticised the government for treating nurses’ welfare issues with indifference despite their contributions to reducing morbidity and mortality in the state. He pointed out that even amid the ongoing brain drain caused by the ‘Japa’ syndrome, nurses have remained committed to serving the state’s population.

“Despite the ongoing brain drain caused by the ‘Japa’ syndrome, we have remained committed to reducing morbidity and mortality in the state. However, the government has refused to reward our sacrifices appropriately,” Orobode said.

The association also accused the government of failing to honour agreements made during past negotiations regarding salary adjustments and welfare improvements. Orobode explained that although the N73,000 minimum wage had been approved, the salary adjustment for nurses under the CONHESS structure had numerous irregularities, leading the association to reject its implementation.

He further alleged that while other health professionals benefited from salary adjustments in July 2024, nurses were left out, leading to further frustration and agitation.

“After several rounds of negotiation, we agreed on a new salary structure with implementation set for January 2025.

“To our dismay, however, the January 2025 salaries were paid using the old salary table, completely disregarding our agreement,” Orobode said.

“We, therefore, direct all nurses and midwives under Ondo State’s employment to withdraw their services indefinitely from 12am on Friday, January 31, 2025, until our demands are fully met,” he added.