Ondo State nurses announced an indefinite strike on Friday, protesting inadequate pay and substandard working conditions.
The strike was announced on Thursday by Felix Orobode, the state chairman of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), at a news conference in Akure.
The strike would affect operations of all the state-owned health services, as maintained by the chairman.
He expressed disappointment that the state government had ignored the association’s demands since 2023, despite numerous engagements.
“These demands include lateral conversion (point to point) for our nurses with first-degree certificates and uniform allowance for nurses, as captured in the public service rule.
“We also demanded payment of arrears of promotion and hazard allowances and a conducive environment in our health facilities with the provision of adequate hospital equipment to work with.
“There was also the proper placement/remuneration of our nurses and midwives.
“Even with numerous rounds of negotiation, unwavering patience, and significant concessions made by our association, the government has refused to honour its commitment.
“Rather, one profession in the health sector was being favoured over others with the adjustment of their salary structure in July 2024,” he said.
The chairman also said the adjustment of the association’s members’ remuneration, following the announcement of N73,000 as the minimum wage in the state, was marred with irregularities.
“To our dismay, the January salary was paid with the old salary table, which was never part of our agreement. Based on this unhealthy development, an emergency State Executive Council (SEC) meeting was summoned today.
“After reviewing our activities so far, we concluded that the government has taken us for a ride. We, therefore, resolved to direct all nurses and midwives under the employment of Ondo State to withdraw their services indefinitely with effect from 12:00 a.m. on Friday, January 31.
“This will be the status quo until our demands are met by the government,” Orobode said.
The chairman further stated that the government’s refusal to meet the association’s demands had left them with no alternative but to strike.
He stated that the financial and professional neglect by the government had become intolerable for nurses and midwives across the state.
Mr. Orobode concluded by passionately appeal to all stakeholders and members of the public for their understanding and support, emphasizing that the action was taken to improve healthcare delivery to the people.
