JOHESU Strike: NMA Berates NLC, TUC Ultimatum Over Health Workers’ Salary Dispute

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has faulted the 14-day ultimatum issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to the Federal Government over the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), warning that the move could escalate tensions in the already strained health sector.

JOHESU, which represents non-physician health workers, commenced industrial action over the Federal Government’s alleged failure to implement the 2021 Technical Committee report on the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), as well as other unresolved welfare concerns. In response, the NLC and TUC issued a 14-day deadline to the government, demanding immediate implementation of the salary review or risk a broader nationwide industrial action that could further disrupt healthcare delivery across the country. However, the NMA has expressed concerns over the ultimatum, describing it as counterproductive and capable of fueling misinformation and inter-professional conflict within the health sector. Speaking on the matter, the NMA National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Mannir Bature, dismissed claims that medical doctors had previously benefited from an upgrade of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), clarifying that what occurred in the past was merely a correction of existing salary distortions rather than preferential treatment He warned that misrepresenting the facts could deepen divisions among healthcare workers and undermine collective efforts to reform Nigeria’s health system. The NMA further urged organised labour to adopt a more measured and dialogue-driven approach, stressing that sensitive issues such as remuneration and professional roles should be resolved through collective bargaining, structured negotiations, and mutual understanding. Meanwhile, the NLC and TUC have accused the Federal Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities of deliberate delays in addressing the demands of JOHESU, describing the government’s response as insensitive to the welfare and contributions of health workers. As the JOHESU strike continues, hospitals across Nigeria have reported disruptions in services, raising concerns about patient care, emergency response, and overall public health.