The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Federal Health Institutions (FHI) Sector, has rejected the recently announced review of nurses’ allowances by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, describing the changes as “grossly inadequate” and unresponsive to the critical welfare needs of its members.
In a strongly worded statement signed by its National Secretary, Comrade NR. Enya Agatha Osinachi, the association expressed deep dissatisfaction with the new pay structure communicated via a circular from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, dated June 2, 2025.
While the circular outlined an upward review of call duty and shift duty allowances, NANNM-FHI said the adjustments fell far below expectations and failed to reflect the realities of nurses’ demanding work conditions.
“The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives–Federal Health Institutions Sector expresses deep disappointment and disillusionment with the recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission,” the statement read. “The revised allowances are not only inadequate but fail to address the key welfare needs of our members.”
The association identified key areas of concern, including:
- Shift Duty Allowances: Nurses working night shifts, weekends, and irregular hours continue to receive allowances that do not reflect the physical and emotional demands of their roles.
- Call Duty Allowances: Nurses who remain on 24/7 emergency alert are not adequately compensated for their constant readiness.
- Specialty Allowances: No provision has been made for nurses in specialized fields such as psychiatric, critical care, pediatric, theatre, oncology, nephrology, and cardiology nursing.
NANNM-FHI demanded a comprehensive overhaul of the allowance structure to include:
- Adequate Shift Duty Allowances that fairly compensate for non-standard working hours and the burden of irregular schedules.
- Fair Call Duty Allowances that recognize the 24/7 availability of nurses on emergency call.
- Specialty Allowances that reward the expertise and contributions of nurses in critical care and specialized fields.
The association warned that unless their demands are met, it will be forced to initiate a nationwide industrial action, including a work-to-rule directive and other lawful protest measures under the Labour Act.
“If our concerns are not addressed, we will have no choice but to embark on industrial action, including work-to-rule and other legal means of protest,” the statement said.
NANNM-FHI also made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to intervene in line with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” that prioritizes the welfare of Nigerian citizens, especially healthcare workers.
“We respectfully call on President Bola Tinubu to personally intervene in this matter. A fair and equitable allowance structure will improve nurses’ morale, productivity, and help curb the ongoing brain drain caused by the ‘Japa’ syndrome,” the association added.
It further cautioned that neglecting these demands could worsen the exodus of Nigerian nurses to foreign countries in search of better working conditions and remuneration.
“NANNM-FHI remains committed to dialogue and constructive engagement but will not hesitate to take necessary action to safeguard the rights and dignity of our members,” the statement concluded.
The association reiterated its dedication to protecting the interests of nurses and midwives nationwide and urged the government to act promptly to avoid disruptions to healthcare services across the country.
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