Academic and non-academic staff of the Kaduna State College of Nursing and Midwifery have commenced a three-day warning strike to press home their demands over welfare and working conditions.
The industrial action, which began on Monday, has paralysed academic and administrative activities across the college’s campuses in Tudun Wada, Kafanchan, and Pambegua.
Speaking on behalf of the staff, the Chairman of the Joint Union Committee, Mr. Ibrahim Musa, said the decision to down tools followed the government’s failure to address long-standing issues, including unpaid allowances, inadequate staffing, and poor infrastructure.
>We have made several appeals to the management and the state government, but nothing has been done. This warning strike is to show our seriousness. If the issues remain unresolved after three days, we may consider a full-scale industrial action,” Musa said.
Students who had ongoing lectures and clinical postings were left stranded, as lecturers and administrative workers withdrew from duty. Some students expressed fears that the strike could disrupt their academic calendar, particularly those preparing for final examinations.
The management of the college, however, appealed for calm, assuring that discussions are ongoing with the state Ministry of Health to find a resolution.
Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Government is yet to issue an official response to the strike.
Observers say the development could worsen the shortage of trained nurses in the state if prolonged, considering the growing demand for healthcare workers.
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