The Joint Health Sectors Union (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (AHPA) have announced a seven-day warning strike set to begin at midnight on October 25, 2024. This decision follows ongoing dissatisfaction over unresolved welfare issues affecting healthcare workers nationwide.
JOHESU’s National President, Comrade Kabiru Ado Minjibir, expressed deep disappointment at a press briefing in Abuja, stating that despite repeated assurances, the government has yet to fulfil their demands.
Key Demands from JOHESU and AHPA
The health workers’ primary demands include:
1. Immediate Implementation of CONHESS Adjustment – An urgent review of health workers’ salary structure.
2. Payment of CONHESS Review Arrears – Settlement of 25% arrears from June to December 2023.
3. Salary Payments to Regulatory Agencies – Payment of nine months’ salary for regulatory staff.
4. Restoration of Funding – Immediate funding for the Environmental Health Regulatory Council.
5. Reconstitution of Governing Boards– Establishment of boards for Federal Health Institutions.
6. Retirement Age Review – An upward review of the retirement age for health workers.
7. Tax Waivers on Allowances – Exemption from taxes on healthcare workers’ allowances.
8. COVID-19 Hazard Allowance – Payment of outstanding COVID-19 inducement hazard allowances.
9. Suspension of NHFRA – Immediate suspension of the National Health Facility Regulatory Agency.
Minjibir stated that in line with the Trade Disputes Act, members of JOHESU affiliate unions are legally empowered to carry out this action. He also warned of a possible indefinite strike if demands remain unmet by the end of the seven-day warning period.
“The general public should bear with us during this period and understand that we seek to improve healthcare delivery across Nigeria,” Minjibir added.
JOHESU emphasized its commitment to open dialogue and urged healthcare consumers and Nigerians to stand in solidarity with their struggle. Minjibir also cautioned that no member should face victimization for participating in this legal strike.
READ ALSO: Ayra Starr Unveils Standards for Dating
With the strike underway, Nigeria’s health sector could face significant disruptions, with healthcare services limited until a resolution is reached.
