Nurses in Ondo State have issued an ultimatum to the state government, announcing that they will commence an indefinite strike on January 31, 2025, in response to unresolved issues surrounding their welfare. The Ondo State Council of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) made this decision after a series of unsuccessful negotiations with the state government, which have yet to result in the fulfillment of their demands.
The nurses have emphasized that their strike is not a demand for better pay, but for justice, recognition, and equitable treatment within the healthcare sector.At a press conference in Akure, the Chairman of Ondo NANNM, Comrade Felix Orobode, outlined the longstanding issues that have led to this drastic step. The association has raised concerns about the government’s failure to honor agreements made in previous discussions, despite offering several concessions.
Among the key demands are the payment of the balance of January 2025 salaries according to the new 100% salary table, the settlement of promotion and hazard allowances, and the resumption of negotiations on uniform allowances for nurses.In addition to these financial matters, the nurses are also seeking a correction to the 2022 Conversion Exercise for Nurses, which has been a point of contention for some time.
Orobode noted that the government’s refusal to address these issues, despite repeated attempts at dialogue, has left the nurses no choice but to take collective action. He urged the public and relevant stakeholders to understand the gravity of the situation and the importance of supporting the nurses in their fight for fairness.
The strike, which will affect public health institutions across the state, is expected to disrupt healthcare services in Ondo State, potentially straining an already challenged healthcare system. Orobode explained that the nurses can no longer continue to endure the financial and professional neglect they have experienced, and that their decision to go on strike is ultimately aimed at improving healthcare delivery for the people of Ondo State.
