The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and Assembly of Healthcare Professionals have issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the resolution of pending welfare issues. In a memo dated October 9, 2024, addressed to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, the unions threatened to resume their suspended strike on October 25 if their demands remain unmet.
The unions, which include several key health workers' organizations, cited unresolved issues that previously led to a strike from May 19 to June 6, 2023. These include salary adjustments, retirement age reviews, and the implementation of a consultant cadre for pharmacists. JOHESU also demands the payment of arrears and hazard allowances, among other issues affecting healthcare workers across the country.
JOHESU's leadership, represented by its National Chairman, Kabiru Minjibir, and National Secretary, Martin Egbanubi, emphasized that the government has consistently delayed addressing the unions’ demands despite repeated interventions, including one by President Bola Tinubu. The unions expressed frustration, stating that their patience and patriotism have been taken for granted.
If the Federal Government fails to meet these demands within the ultimatum period, JOHESU members will begin a seven-day warning strike, potentially escalating to an indefinite strike if no resolution is reached. The unions call for urgent action to prevent disruption in the nation’s healthcare system.
