Striking Ondo Nurses Call Off Strike

By Ayodele Oni

The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, (NANNM) has announced the suspension of an indefinite strike its members embarked upon since last week.

The state chapter of NANNM, had commenced an indifinite strike last Friday over unfavourable working conditions.

A statement signed by the state chairman, Felix Orobode and secretary, Lucky Aremu, “directed all the Nurses and Midwives under the Employment of Ondo State to withdraw their services indefinitely with effect from 12:00am Friday of 31st January, 2025 until the following demands are met by the State.

Among their demands were “Payment of the balance of January 2025 salary as agreed with the 100 percent new salary table.

“Correction of the 2022 Conversion Exercise where our members were indirectly demoted and  lateral (point to point) conversion in subsequent Conversion Exercises.

“Payment of the arrears of Promotion and Hazard Allowances and resumption of negotiation on Uniform Allowance for Nurses as captured in the Public Service rule.”

According to the association,  ‘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.

However, a statement on Monday from the office of the Head of Service stated that “After an extensive deliberation held today, Monday, 3rd February 2025, between the Office of the Head of Service and the Hospital Management Board with the leadership of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), it has been resolved that the strike embarked upon on Friday 31st January 2025 be called off immediately.

“The Labour was duly informed of the actions being taken by Government to address their concerns, especially on CONHESS Salary Structure and financial effectiveness of their 2024 promotion, among others.

“Both parties acknowledged the commitment of His Excellency, Dr. Aiyedatiwa-led Government towards effective health care service delivery, in particular and sustenance of industrial harmony in the State Public Service, generally.”

The statement, signed by Sina Adeyeye, Press Officer, Office of the HOS, further said that “It was agreed that a joint forum of government and representatives of health professionals be created for regular interface to forestall hiccups in the sector.”