Nurses’ Strike Disrupts Healthcare Services in Ibadan
The Adeoyo Hospital in Ibadan has seen a significant disruption in its operations following the nationwide strike initiated by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM). The strike, which began on Wednesday, has led to the discharge of several patients who were previously admitted. This development has raised concerns about the quality of healthcare being provided in the region.
According to reports, the NANNM has called for a seven-day warning strike due to the government’s failure to address their demands. These include an upward review of shift allowances, adjustments to uniform allowances, and the establishment of a separate salary structure for nurses. Other key demands involve increased core duty allowances, mass employment of nurses, and the creation of a nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
A visit by a correspondent from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to Adeoyo State Hospital revealed that many wards were empty, with only a few critical patients remaining. However, these patients lacked adequate nursing care, as the hospital was operating under severe staffing shortages.
Mr. Adegoke Rahman, a relative of a patient in the female ward, shared his concerns about the situation. He mentioned that some patients were instructed to leave the hospital due to the ongoing strike. His mother, who had recently undergone leg surgery, was unable to walk or stand, yet she received no nursing assistance. Instead, doctors were handling her care, highlighting the strain on medical staff.
Similarly, Mr. Samuel Biyi, an outpatient, reported that he came to the hospital to treat a serious leg wound but was not attended to. He emphasized the pain he was experiencing, underscoring the challenges faced by patients during this period.
A doctor on duty, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed that medical personnel were still present at the hospital. However, they were not on strike and were managing outpatient services. The doctor noted that the hospital was not accepting new admissions and was referring critically ill patients to private hospitals for treatment.
Comrade Emmanuel Aina, the Secretary of the Oyo State chapter of NANNM, explained that the decision to initiate the strike followed an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council and directives from the national headquarters. This move reflects the growing frustration among nurses over unresolved issues related to their working conditions and compensation.
The ongoing strike has not only affected public hospitals but also highlighted the broader challenges facing the healthcare sector in Nigeria. With nurses demanding better treatment and support, the situation underscores the need for urgent dialogue between the government and healthcare workers.
As the strike continues, the impact on patients and medical staff remains a pressing concern. The resolution of these disputes will be crucial in ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the healthcare system in the country.