Pulse.ng : Nurses' Union Demands Immediate Action on Welfare, Security, other needs from FG

By Stella Kabruk

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI), has issued a communique outlining several demands to the Federal Government aimed at improving the working conditions and welfare of nurses and midwives across the country.

The communique was signed and issued to newsmen by Nr. Morakinyo Rilwan, the National Chairman of the NANMM-FHI and its National Secretary, Nr. Enya Osinachi.

The demands, were made at the end of the 15th Annual Labour Workshop/National Executive Council Meeting held at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital Gwagwalada, Abuja, from April 7th to 9th, 2025, with the theme "Building Resilience Among Leaders to Achieve Union Objectives."

The NANNM-FHI expressed disappointment with the lack of tangible progress in addressing their longstanding demands and called for an immediate review of the ultimatum previously issued.

The association is seeking policy intervention to regulate the proliferation of nursing training institutions, improve the security situation across the country, and audit the employment process in federal health institutions to prioritize health workers, especially nurses, according to the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, 2024.

The association also demanded provision of adequate working tools and manpower to facilitate efficient service delivery in hospitals, addressing the persistent challenges of inadequate workforce to improve patient care outcomes. They also seek to jettison the idea of casualization of labor through locum appointment of young vibrant nurses seeking employment.

Furthermore, the NANNM-FHI demanded immediate disbursement of seven months' worth of 2023 peculiar allowances, full payment of the ₦35,000 wage award arrears as recommended by the CONHESS consequential adjustment committee, and addressing the issue of limited space for promotion within the nursing profession to ensure career advancement opportunities for nurses.

The association expressed concern over the disparity in treatment regarding payment of uniform allowances, noting that while doctors and other health workers have received accoutrement allowances, nurses' uniform allowances have not been upgraded or integrated into the IPPIS system for transparency and consistency.

They demanded an immediate review alongside other peculiar professional nurses' allowances already submitted by the Association.

Additionally, the NANNM-FHI advocates for the centralization of internship programs for graduate nurses under the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Health to ensure equity, efficiency, and standardization in the deployment of nurse interns.

The NANNM-FHI commended the dedication and resilience of Nigerian nurses and midwives, particularly those serving in federal health institutions, and called on stakeholders to prioritize their welfare, professional development, and overall support.

The association appreciates its members across the country for their patience and commitment to duty despite the economic situation and prevalent security challenges.

They also commended the management of the University of Abuja for providing the venue for the pivotal event.