Pulse.ng : NANNM appeals to Fed.Govt. for review of allowances

By Stella Kabruk

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives -Federal Health Institutions (NANNM -FHI) Sector has appeal to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission regarding the review of allowances for nurses.

Enya Agatha -Osinachi , National Secretary of the association made the appeal on Tuesday in Kaduna during a press briefing stating that the association was disappointed over recent circular.

She said despite the mention of an upward review in the Ministry's letter, the new allowances for call duties remain inadequate. Nurses who are on call often have to sacrifice their personal time and be available to respond to emergencies at any moment.

"We humbly appeal to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in this matter, as it aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda's focus on improving the welfare of Nigerians, particularly healthcare workers.
"We believe that a fair and equitable allowance structure for nurses will boost morale, productivity, and cushion the effect of Japa syndrome.

"We also urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address our concerns, lest we are forced to take industrial actions that may disrupt healthcare services. We prefer dialogue and negotiation but will not hesitate to take bold steps to protect the interests of our members.

According to her,the association believes
the provisions are not only inadequate but also fail to address the key concerns and welfare needs of our members."

"Furtherance to the letter referenced C.2920/S.4/IV/27 dated 2nd June 2025, addressed to NANNM-FHI Sector by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, regarding the upward review of call duty and shift duty allowance, we expected a more comprehensive and satisfactory outcome. Regrettably, the recent review falls short of our expectations.

She said the current allowances for shift duties, including night shifts, weekend shifts, and other non-standard working hours, are grossly insufficient.

" Nurses work tirelessly around the clock, often under challenging conditions, and deserve fair compensation for their dedication.

She said Nurses in specialized fields possess unique skills and expertise that are crucial to patient care. The absence of specialty allowances fails to recognize and reward their contributions.

She therefore appeals to the president to intervene by providing a comprehensive and revised allowance structure .

" We are also appealing for Provision of fair and reasonable compensation for nurses working non-standard hours, reflecting the extra burden and challenges they face.

" Includes allowances that recognize the constant availability and readiness required of nurses on call, ensuring they are adequately compensated for their service.

"Specialty Allowances recognizes the specialized skills and expertise of nurses in specific fields, including: Psychiatric nurses, Critical care nurses, Operating theater nurses, Pediatric nurses,
Other nursing specialties (e.g., oncology, nephrology, cardiology e.t.c.

She said the association remains committed to advocating for the welfare and rights of nurses across the country and will continue to push for policies and practices that recognize the hard work, dedication, and expertise of members.(NAN)