In a decisive move, the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Health Care Professionals have issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding urgent action to resolve issues concerning the welfare and working conditions of their members. The ultimatum, which began on October 10, 2024, warns that failure to address their grievances will result in industrial action.
Key issues highlighted by JOHESU include the non-payment of salary arrears for certain health agencies, the outstanding 25% CONHESS review arrears, and the payment of COVID-19 hazard allowances for omitted health workers. These concerns also encompass broader grievances related to professional responsibilities.
JOHESU comprises four registered trade unions in the health sector: the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutions and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI), and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU).
In a statement jointly signed by National President Comrade Kabiru Minjibir and National Secretary Comrade Martin Egbanubi, the unions noted that the ultimatum follows a unanimous resolution made during a hybrid meeting of the JOHESU Expanded National Executive Council on October 2, 2024.
The statement reads, “JOHESU is constrained to give the Federal Government of Nigeria fifteen (15) days ultimatum with effect from Thursday, 10th October, 2024. If our demands are not met, all our members in Federal Health Institutions will embark on a seven (7) day strike action starting at midnight on Friday, 25th October, 2024.”
The unions have also called for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to approve an upward review of the retirement age for health workers and to provide tax waivers on healthcare workers’ allowances.
Furthermore, they are advocating for pharmacists to be given sole responsibility for drug use management and procurement in Nigeria, citing legal provisions that explicitly outline these responsibilities.
The unions warn that if their demands are not met following the warning strike, they will have no choice but to initiate an indefinite strike.
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