Nigeria’s healthcare system is bracing for a potential disruption as the Joint Health Sector Unions, JOHESU, and Assembly of Health Care Professionals have declared a seven-day warning strike, starting at midnight tonight.
This decision comes after the federal government failed to address the union’s long-standing demands within the 15-day ultimatum.
JOHESU’s national chairman, Kabiru Minjibir, explained that the strike is a last resort to pressure the government to meet their demands.
Key among these demands are the immediate implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure, payment of outstanding arrears, revision of the retirement age for healthcare workers, tax waivers on allowances, and payment of COVID-19 inducement hazard allowances.
Minjibir emphasized that the government’s inaction has left the union no choice but to embark on this strike.
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He urged the government to take prompt action to prevent a full-blown strike after the warning period.
The union has called on its members nationwide to participate in the industrial action, which may disrupt healthcare services, particularly in public institutions.
JOHESU has been advocating for improved working conditions for healthcare professionals, especially considering their crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While open to dialogue, the union stresses the government’s urgent need to address their concerns.
The strike’s impact on healthcare services nationwide remains a concern, pending the government’s response.
