By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Workers Forum has declared full support for the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), accusing the Federal Government of “persistent betrayal” and failure to honour long-standing agreements with health workers.
In a statement jointly signed by National Coordinator Andrew Emelieze and National Administrative Secretary Ogundele Ayo, the Forum condemned what it described as years of neglect, unfulfilled promises, and insincere engagements by the government, which they said have pushed the health sector into a state of emergency.
“The Federal Government must understand that health workers are the backbone of Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system,” the statement read. “It is only fair, just, and morally right that the government respects agreements it freely entered into and prioritises the welfare of these essential workers.”
JOHESU—which comprises nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, and other allied health professionals—recently embarked on industrial action demanding improved wages, enhanced hazard allowances, and full implementation of previously negotiated terms with the government.
Health Sector “At Breaking Point”
The Nigerian Workers Forum warned that the exodus of trained health professionals, worsening working conditions, and neglect of welfare issues had critically weakened the country’s healthcare system.
“The deterioration of working conditions, the shortage of personnel, and the mass exit of qualified professionals pose grave risks to the wellbeing of citizens,” the statement added. “When health workers are treated unjustly, it directly affects patient care, access to essential services, and the resilience of the healthcare system.”
Demands to the Federal Government
The Forum outlined a series of urgent steps it said the Tinubu administration must take to avert further damage:
- Immediately re-engage JOHESU in sincere, result-oriented dialogue
- Implement all existing agreements without delay
- Address longstanding issues such as promotion arrears, hazard allowances, welfare gaps, and inadequate working tools
- Strengthen the healthcare workforce through policies that encourage retention, motivation, and professional dignity
The group cautioned that continued disregard for labour agreements would fuel industrial unrest and disrupt critical public services.
Workers Forum Reaffirms Solidarity
The Nigerian Workers Forum reiterated its unwavering support for JOHESU, insisting that the health workers’ demands are legitimate and essential to safeguarding the wellbeing of Nigerians.
“The wellbeing of health workers is the wellbeing of the Nigerian people,” the Forum said. “Their struggle is a struggle for a stronger and more equitable healthcare system.”
The Federal Government has yet to issue a formal response to JOHESU’s renewed industrial action.
