Ondo Nurses Declare Indefinite Strike Over Poor Welfare

Nurses in Ondo State, under the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), have declared an indefinite strike starting Friday, January 31, 2025, over the government’s failure to address their welfare concerns. State NANNM Chairman, Felix Orobode, voiced frustration over the government’s neglect, highlighting that nurses often take on multiple roles beyond their duties, particularly in general hospitals and health centers. Despite their contributions to reducing morbidity and mortality amid the ongoing ‘Japa’ brain drain, he said the government has failed to adequately compensate them. The association accused the state of breaching agreements on salary adjustments and welfare improvements. Although a new salary structure was agreed upon, nurses were excluded from the adjustments implemented in July 2024, and January salaries were paid using the old structure. In response, NANNM has directed all nurses and midwives under state employment to withdraw their services indefinitely until their demands are met.