The Minister of Health, Ali Pate on Friday announced the suspension of the warning strike embarked upon by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNW).
Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting in Abuja, Pate said the decision followed agreements reached between the government and the association’s leadership.
The aggrieved nurses and midwives had begun a nationwide warning strike on July 29 over sundry issues including demand for improved welfare, fair allowances, and better working conditions in federal health institutions.
The strike, which affected public health institutions across the country had paralysed health care services,.forcing many of the health institutions to prematurely discharge patients receiving medicare.
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The union’s National Chairman, Morakinyo Rilwan, had previously accused the federal government of failing to engage with the association during the 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14.
“As far as we are concerned, there has been no communication from the government to this moment. That is why we are saying the strike is going on, and nothing is stopping it.
“Even if the government calls today or tomorrow, it won’t stop the strike. They had enough time,” Rilwan had insisted.
However, the union leaders declined to speak to journalists after the closed door meeting with the minister.
