Wike Faces 15-Day Ultimatum as FCT Nurses Threaten Strike Over Critical Welfare Issues

Wike Faces 15-Day Ultimatum as FCT Nurses Threaten Strike Over Critical Welfare Issues

Abuja, Nigeria – September 16, 2025

In a heartfelt appeal for improved working conditions, the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council has issued a compassionate yet firm 15-day ultimatum to Honourable Minister Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. Dated September 15, 2025, this notice demands urgent action on pressing welfare concerns, with a potential 7-day warning strike looming if unmet by midnight on October 2, 2025. This development underscores the human toll on Nigeria’s healthcare heroes and signals a critical moment for FCT’s healthcare system.

The ultimatum, signed by Secretary Nanman Philemon Kash, reflects the dedication of FCT nurses and midwives who have tirelessly served their communities despite overwhelming challenges. NANNM highlighted their noble profession’s struggle, noting, “Our employers seem to have taken the respect, professional ethics, values, and humanity for granted.” This plea comes after years of unaddressed grievances, with the association prioritizing patient care while enduring burnout and resource shortages.

Key Demands for Minister Wike

The nurses’ demands are a call for dignity and support, including:

• Urgent Recruitment: Hiring over 5,000 nurses to meet WHO standards (1 nurse per 4 patients), addressing the current strain of 1 nurse per 30 patients that endangers staff health.
• Essential Supplies: Immediate provision of equipment and consumables to ensure safe, effective care.
• Overdue Payments: Full payment of 13 months’ hazard allowance arrears and reinstatement of stopped allowances since November 2024.
• Infrastructure Renewal: Comprehensive renovation of dilapidated hospitals and nurses’ call rooms.
• Financial Justice: Refund of pension deductions, resolution of salary inconsistencies, and support for promotions stalled since 2023.
• Training and Growth: Enhanced training and retention programs to uplift the workforce.

A History of Patience and Advocacy

Since 2023, NANNM has engaged stakeholders, including the FCT Administration and Health Services, with little response. The association’s resolve was cemented at a State Executive Council meeting on July 24, 2025, where leaders mandated this ultimatum. Despite avoiding past strikes to protect patients, the nurses now feel compelled to act, urging Minister Wike to address these humane concerns.

Implications for FCT Healthcare

If unresolved, the threatened strike could disrupt Abuja’s healthcare services, impacting a growing population already strained by limited resources. NANNM has called on all members to unite, with unit leaders mobilizing for compliance, reflecting a collective stand for fair treatment.

Fellow Nurses Africa stands in solidarity with these dedicated professionals, urging Minister Wike to prioritize dialogue and action.

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