The association described reviewed allowances for nurses and midwives as “grossly inadequate” and failing to address the core welfare needs of its members.

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives–Federal Health Institutions (NANNM-FHI) Sector has rejected the recent review of nurses’ allowances by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.

The association described reviewed allowances for nurses and midwives as “grossly inadequate” and failing to address the core welfare needs of its members.

In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Comrade NR. Enya Agatha Osinachi, the association expressed deep disappointment over the circular communicated through a letter dated June 2, 2025, from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

While NANNM-FHI noted that the letter referenced an upward review of call duty and shift duty allowances, the association said the final outcome fell far short of expectations.

“The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives-Federal Health Institution (NANNM-FHI) Sector expresses strong disappointment and disillusionment over the recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission regarding the review of allowances for nurses,” the statement read.

“We believe the provisions are not only inadequate but also fail to address the key concerns and welfare needs of our members.”

According to the association, the major areas where the current review was deemed insufficient include Shift Duty Allowances; Call Duty Allowances, and Specialty Allowances.

NANNM-FHI stated, “Nurses working night, weekend, and irregular shifts continue to receive allowances that do not reflect the demands or risks of their roles.

“Despite being on 24/7 emergency alert, the revised figures were described as ‘unjust and discouraging.’

“NANNM-FHI decries the absence of recognition for nurses in specialized fields such as psychiatric, critical care, pediatric, operating theater, oncology, nephrology, and cardiology nursing.”

The association therefore demanded a comprehensive and revised allowance structure that includes adequate shift duty allowances that reflect the intensity and irregularity of nurses’ schedules; fair call duty allowances to compensate for round-the-clock emergency readiness, and specialty allowances that reward the expertise of nurses in critical and specialised fields.

The statement read, “We demand a comprehensive and revised allowance structure that adequate shift duty allowances: Provides fair and reasonable compensation for nurses working non-standard hours, reflecting the extra burden and challenges they face.

“Fair call duty allowances: Includes allowances that recognise the constant availability and readiness required of nurses on call, ensuring they are adequately compensated for their service.

“Specialty Allowances: Recognises the specialised skills and expertise of nurses in specific fields, including: Psychiatric nurses, Critical care nurses, Operating theatre nurses, Pediatric nurses, other nursing specialties (e.g., oncology, nephrology, cardiology etc.”

The association threatened that failure to meet their demands could result in nationwide industrial action, including a work-to-rule directive and other legal forms of protest as guaranteed under the Labour Act.

“If our demands are not met, we will resort to industrial action, work-to-rule, and other forms of collective bargaining, as provided for under the Labour Act,” the association stated.

NANNM-FHI also made a direct appeal to President Bola Tinubu to personally intervene, emphasising that the welfare of healthcare workers is central to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We humbly appeal to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in this matter, as it aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda's focus on improving the welfare of Nigerians, particularly healthcare workers,” it said.

“We believe that a fair and equitable allowance structure for nurses will boost morale, productivity, and cushion the effect of Japa syndrome.”

The association warned that failure to address their concerns could further worsen the ongoing brain drain, commonly referred to as the Japa syndrome, where Nigerian nurses emigrate in search of better opportunities abroad.

“We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address our concerns, lest we are forced to take industrial actions that may disrupt healthcare services,” the statement noted.

“We prefer dialogue and negotiation but will not hesitate to take bold steps to protect the interests of our members.”

NANNM-FHI reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of Nigerian nurses and midwives and called for urgent and meaningful action from relevant government agencies to avoid disruption of critical healthcare services nationwide.

“NANNM-FHI Sector remains committed to advocating for the welfare and rights of nurses across Nigeria.

“We will continue to push for policies and practices that recognise the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our members,” the association stressed.

Follow the Sahara Reporters channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaFClvtH5JM6SSsP7M2Y