Nigerian Health Workers' Strike Forces Patients to Private Care Amid Salary Dispute

The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) in Nigeria, led by its national president Kabiru Minjibir, are on strike for the 84th day, demanding the implementation of a salary structure adjustment proposed in the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) report submitted in 2021. The strike, triggered by a 14-day ultimatum issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), has paralyzed government-owned hospitals nationwide.

Despite several Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed with the government over the years, none of the proposed adjustments have been implemented, leading to the current standoff. Patients are now compelled to seek essential medical services outside public health institutions, impacting healthcare delivery in the country.