The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) have suspended their planned picket of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare after President Bola Tinubu intervened and established a high‑level committee to address the unions’ demands. The committee, chaired by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, includes the governors of Edo and Kebbi States and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.
JOHESU President Kabiru Minjibir announced the suspension during a discussion, noting that the union had presented its issues to President Tinubu in a meeting between the Nigeria Labour Congress leadership and the President. The talks centered on the adjusted Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), a key point of the negotiations. The committee has been tasked with engaging labour unions and resolving outstanding matters, with a meeting scheduled to discuss the long‑standing demand for the CONHESS adjustment.
The suspension signals a temporary de‑escalation of the industrial action that began on 15 November 2025, when the Federal Government failed to implement the adjusted CONHESS and address other welfare and systemic challenges affecting health workers. The strike, involving JOHESU and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, has significant implications for the healthcare sector.
The establishment of the committee and the upcoming meeting are viewed as positive steps toward resolving the dispute. JOHESU expressed cautious optimism about the committee’s ability to meet its demands, particularly the CONHESS adjustment. By suspending the picket, the union aims to allow discussions to continue and potentially reach a resolution.
This development marks a significant update in the ongoing industrial action that has disrupted healthcare services nationwide. As stakeholders await the committee’s findings, the temporary suspension offers a glimmer of hope for a settlement. The next steps will depend on the committee’s conclusions and the willingness of all parties to negotiate and find common ground.
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