Table of Contents
- Warning of Possible Strike
- New Year Address by NANNM Chairman
- Challenges with Promotion Exercises
- Escalation of Response
- Ongoing Strike at National Ear Care Centre
- Potential Shutdown of Health Facilities
- Salary Improvements Acknowledged
Nurses in Kaduna State have issued a stern warning regarding a potential statewide strike due to the ongoing failure of authorities to conduct promotion exercises.
This warning was delivered in a New Year address by the Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Kaduna State Council, Comrade Nurse Ishaku Yakubu, who expressed his frustration over what he termed the intentional neglect of nurses’ career advancement by the Ministry of Health and its associated agencies.
Yakubu noted that the lack of promotion exercises has become one of the primary challenges confronting nurses in the state, highlighting that this situation has adversely impacted morale and productivity within the healthcare system.
He emphasized that the union will no longer tolerate delays that compromise the dignity and professional growth of nurses.
According to him, the union has decided to escalate its actions if the issue remains unresolved.
“In 2026, we will declare an industrial dispute with the state Ministry of Health and its agencies that fail to conduct promotion exercises in a timely manner,” Yakubu announced.
The promotion dispute arises amid an ongoing industrial action at the National Ear Care Centre, Kaduna, where nurses are striking over concerns related to professional designations and salary placements. Yakubu revealed that the strike, now in its second week, has achieved full compliance.
“The strike action is in its second week and it is 100 percent successful,” he stated.
He cautioned that if authorities do not act promptly, it could result in a wider shutdown of healthcare facilities throughout the state.
“If that institution fails to take the necessary actions in the shortest time possible, we will be compelled to call on other federal health institutions in the state, as well as the entire state, to join in the industrial action for solidarity,” Yakubu warned.
While recognizing the achievements made in 2025, particularly the approval and implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) 2024, which improved nurses’ welfare, the NANNM chairman stressed that salary increases alone are insufficient.
He asserted that promotions are a statutory right and a vital aspect of professional motivation, accusing some institutions of attempting to undermine the nursing profession and reduce nurses to subordinate roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the warning of a possible strike by nurses in Kaduna State?
The warning is due to the ongoing failure of authorities to conduct promotion exercises, which has negatively impacted nurses' career progression.
What actions will the union take if the promotion issues are not resolved?
The union plans to declare an industrial dispute with the state Ministry of Health and its agencies in 2026 if the promotion exercises are not conducted on time.
What is the current status of the strike at the National Ear Care Centre?
The strike at the National Ear Care Centre is currently in its second week and has achieved 100 percent compliance.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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