Government-owned hospitals in Ondo State have been paralyzed as state-employed nurses began an indefinite strike on Thursday, affecting all state-run medical facilities.
The nurses cited the administration’s failure to address their grievances.
The nurses, under the aegis of National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), announced the decision at a press briefing on Thursday in Akure, the state capital.
Felix Orobode, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), spoke out against Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration for neglecting the welfare of nurses in the state.
Despite their crucial role in the healthcare sector, nurses have been facing numerous challenges, particularly regarding their welfare.
Orobode emphasised the need to raise public awareness about these issues, citing the government’s failure to honor agreements reached in previous negotiations.
Specifically, he mentioned that the government had approved a minimum wage of N73,000, but irregularities in the salary adjustment under the CONHESS structure led to the association rejecting its implementation.
The NANNM has been seeking improvements in several areas, including payment of salary arrears, promotion and hazard allowances, and uniform allowances.
However, the government’s refusal to address these concerns has led the association to direct its members to withdraw their services indefinitely, starting from January 31, 2025.
Exasperated by the government’s lack of response, the State Executive Council of the association convened an emergency meeting and resolved to embark on an indefinite strike.
“The government’s refusal to address nurses’ welfare has left us with no other option but to take this action.
“Nurses can no longer endure the financial and professional neglect that has characterized our relationship with the government.
“We appeal to all well-meaning stakeholders and members of the public to understand and support our cause, as this action is ultimately in the best interest of healthcare delivery in Ondo State.
“Our members are therefore directed to stay off duty from 12:00 am Friday, January 31, 2025 until our demands are met.”
