The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Health Care Professional Association have announced an indefinite strike, calling on their members to cease work until their demands are met. The decision was made public by Dr Obinna Ogbonna, the National Vice President of JOHESU, during a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday.

JOHESU serves as the overarching body representing various unions and associations of health workers, including the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, and Senior Staff Association of Universities’ Teaching Hospitals Research Institutes and Associated Institutions.

This strike action follows a 15-day ultimatum issued by JOHESU’s leadership in a letter dated May 9, 2023. The ultimatum was aimed at compelling the Federal Government to address alleged inconsistencies in the ongoing negotiations to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers within their respective organizations.

The 15-day ultimatum, which commenced on May 10, 2023, is set to expire at midnight on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. As the deadline approaches, Dr Obinna emphasized, “It becomes imperative to inform you that since the Federal Government is yet to meet these demands, our members have been directed by the JOHESU National Executive Council to proceed on an indefinite strike action upon expiration of the ultimatum by midnight of May 25, 2023.”

The strike action is expected to have a significant impact on the healthcare sector, as health workers across the country join the protest to press for improved salary structures and resolve existing discrepancies. The decision to embark on an indefinite strike underscores the urgency felt by JOHESU and their determination to secure fair compensation and equitable treatment for health workers.