By Atoyebi Nike
Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has expressed concern over the ongoing strike by nurses and midwives, warning that Nigeria risks losing its nursing workforce to foreign countries if their demands are not urgently addressed.
Reacting to the strike in a post on X, Sani described the situation as “unfortunate” and said the government must act swiftly. He revealed that some nurses have resorted to selling snacks and drinks within hospital premises just to survive.
“The strike by the nurses and midwives is unfortunate. They should be listened to and their possible demands should be met so we don’t lose them to Europe, Canada, America, or the Middle East,” he wrote.
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives- Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) began a seven-day warning strike on Wednesday, following the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14.
Union leaders say the strike is in protest of poor welfare, unpaid allowances, and harsh working conditions in federal health institutions. National Chairman Morakinyo Rilwan said the Federal Government failed to engage the union during the notice period.
Despite government appeals, the strike is continuing, with fears it could paralyze health services if not resolved quickly.
