The Edo State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has backed the national leadership’s decision to embark on a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to meet their demands. The nurses are seeking better remuneration, recognition, and improved working conditions.
At an enlarged meeting, the nurses listed their demands, including the creation of a Department of Nursing in the Federal Ministry of Health, an upward review of professional allowances, and inclusion in health policy-making bodies. They also demand the gazetting of Nurses’ Schemes of service, implementation of a National Industrial Court judgment, and payment of owed salaries.
The Edo NANNM Chairman, Francis Oliseh Esq., stated that nurses in Nigeria are undervalued and neglected compared to other countries. He emphasized that their adherence to ethics and the rule of law has been taken for granted, pushing them to take action.
The nurses have given the Federal Government an ultimatum, expiring on September 16, 2024. They also demanded the reopening of the Verification portal for Nurses and Midwives to enable those traveling abroad to renew their registrations.
Oliseh Esq. appreciated Governor Godwin Obaseki for implementing a 25% upward review of the 2023 Consolidated Health Salary Structure for nurses in Edo State. The Vice Chairman, Otaigbe Queen-Stella, appealed to the Federal Government to provide medical facilities and employ more nurses to fill the gap in health institutions.
Vanguard.
