The Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Health Care Professionals have announced a seven-day warning strike starting at midnight on Friday, October 25, 2024.
This decision comes after the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum given to the Federal Government to meet the demands of health workers.
At a press conference in Abuja, JOHESU’s national chairman, Kabiru Minjibir, shared the main demands of the union. These include the immediate implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure, payment of a 25% arrears review for June to December 2023, and an increase in the retirement age for healthcare workers. They also want a tax waiver on allowances for health workers and immediate payment of COVID-19 hazard allowances.
Minjibir stated, “We are left with no other option but to embark on this strike after waiting for the government to address our grievances.” He emphasized that this strike is a warning aimed at urging the government to meet their long-standing demands.
JOHESU has called on all its members nationwide to participate in the strike. They warn that the strike could disrupt healthcare services, especially in public health institutions, if the Federal Government does not act quickly to address their concerns.
This latest strike follows a series of unsuccessful negotiations with the government. The union has been fighting for better working conditions for healthcare professionals, especially considering their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The leadership of JOHESU has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue but stressed the need for urgent government action to avoid a full strike after this warning period.
