The Federal Ministry of Health in Nigeria has mandated the release of salaries for nurses whose payments were wrongfully withheld by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF). The decision stems from a mistaken belief that these nurses participated in a strike along with their counterparts in the Joint Health Sector Unions. The ministry clarified that the nurses did not engage in any strike action and therefore should not be penalized by a withholding of their salaries.

In a memo to the OAGF, the ministry highlighted that the lien on the salaries was a result of a misinterpretation of a previous industrial action involving other health workers, which commenced on November 14, 2025. The memo emphasized that the ban on the January 2026 salaries was inappropriate given the nurses’ lack of participation in the related strike. The ministry's intervention indicates its commitment to ensuring that nurses, who play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, receive their compensation on time.

This development is pivotal for the nursing community, as delays in salary payments can adversely affect their financial stability and motivation. The recognition of their non-participation in the strike and subsequent release of salaries not only restores morale among nurses but also reinforces the ministry's accountability in managing workforce compensation. The incident highlights the importance of clear communication and accurate understanding of employee participation in industrial actions to prevent similar situations in the future.