By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has issued a warning of an impending nationwide strike following the expiration of a 48-hour ultimatum given to the Nigeria and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) over stringent certificate verification guidelines.
In a statement signed by Thomas A.O (RN) on behalf of the Naija Nurses Forum, nurses expressed their discontent with the NMCN’s certification verification process, which they argue could impede their ability to practice freely.
The nurses staged a peaceful protest at the NMCN head office in Abuja and Lagos on Monday, February 12, 2024, demanding a review of the verification guidelines, emphasizing that the process should adhere to international standards and be completed within 48 hours.
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Among their grievances, the nurses called for the withdrawal of the new circular and the reopening of the verification portal without conditions. They warned that failure to address their concerns would force them to initiate industrial action.
Additionally, the nurses demanded improvements in nurses’ welfare, increased hazard allowance, better working conditions, and enhanced support for professional development opportunities.
The statement criticized the NMCN registrar and other nursing leaders for what they perceived as unaccountability and irresponsibility, particularly in the release of stringent verification guidelines that were deemed “absurd and barbaric.”
Furthermore, the nurses called for a review of the NMCN establishment act, advocating for the regulatory body to operate independently rather than being under the Federal Ministry of Health.
In solidarity with nurses in Oyo, Ondo, and Bayelsa states, who are also protesting against the oppression of nurses, the statement underscored the need for nursing leaders to pursue the independence of their professional body and resist all forms of oppression.
Having given the NMCN a 48-hour ultimatum that expired on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, the nurses warned of nationwide protests if the federal government fails to address their demands promptly.
