Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has announced that the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has suspended its 84-day nationwide industrial action following a successful conciliation meeting with the Federal Government. This was contained in a statement signed by Ado Bako, Assistant Director, Press and Public Relations.
The Union has consequently directed all its members nationwide to return to work immediately in the interest of patients, health system stability, and national public health security.
Speaking on the development, the Honourable Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako emphasised that the resolution reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to dialogue, fairness, and the protection of Nigeria’s health workforce.
“The Federal Government remains fully committed to the welfare, dignity, and professional advancement of all health workers across Nigeria. The resolution reached demonstrates that dialogue, mutual respect, and good faith remain the most effective tools for resolving industrial disputes in our health sector.”
The Federal Government has also withdrawn the “No Work, No Pay” directive issued during the strike period and has approved the immediate payment of January 2026 salaries for all JOHESU members.
“We recognise the sacrifices made by our health workers and the critical role they play in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Nigerians.
Government has therefore approved the immediate payment of January 2026 salaries and assures all JOHESU members that no worker will be victimised, sanctioned, or intimidated for participating in the industrial action.”
The Minister of State further reaffirmed Government’s commitment to sustained engagement with health sector unions to strengthen industrial harmony and improve service delivery outcomes.
“This administration is determined to build a health sector where workers feel valued, patients receive quality care, and institutions are strengthened for long-term sustainability. We will continue negotiations on the Collective Bargaining Agreement and prioritise outstanding issues relating to the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).”
Furthermore, the Federal Government has committed to making provision for the proposed salary adjustments through budgetary allocation in the 2026 Appropriation Act, guided by the existing technical committee template.
“The Federal Government will continue to back its commitments with concrete policy and budgetary actions. The inclusion of salary adjustment provisions in the 2026 Appropriation framework reflects our seriousness about sustainable solutions for the health workforce.”
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare commends the spirit of cooperation, patriotism, and responsibility demonstrated by all parties throughout the engagement process. The Ministry reassures Nigerians of Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring uninterrupted, quality, and accessible healthcare services across the country.
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