On Thursday, nurses and teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), represented by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), held a joint protest in Abuja to demand the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage, payment of overdue allowances, and improved working conditions.
The protesters, bearing placards with bold messages, assembled at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) headquarters, Labour House, before marching to the FCT Minister’s Office in Garki, where they submitted a formal protest letter to FCT Administration officials.
Jama Medan, NANNM FCT Chapter Chairman, highlighted the dire state of healthcare in the FCT, particularly in Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). “With only 120 nurses and midwives serving 270 PHCs, thousands of patients are left underserved,” he told reporters. “These centres have been shut for over a month due to ongoing healthcare worker protests, leaving women and children without critical care.” Medan accused Area Council Chairmen of misappropriating N4.1 billion allocated by the FCT Administration for allowance arrears, alleging personal enrichment. He called for urgent action to enforce payment, implement the minimum wage, and upgrade healthcare infrastructure.
Abdullahi Muhammad Shefa, NUT FCT Wing Chairman, echoed these concerns, condemning the Area Council Chairmen for undermining the FCT Administration’s efforts. “The N4.1 billion meant for teachers and nurses has vanished,” he said. “The Chairmen refuse to implement the legally mandated minimum wage and are exploiting teachers for personal gain.” Shefa stressed that the protesters were fighting for their rightful entitlements, not privileges, and urged the FCT Minister to ensure direct payment of the funds.
NLC President Joe Ajaero pledged unwavering support, warning of escalated action if the FCT Administration fails to address the grievances. “This protest is just the beginning,” he said. “If the Minister does not act, we will mobilise nationwide next week. Nigerian workers stand united in this fight for better welfare and conditions.”
