The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Kaduna State Council, has dismissed rumors of a planned statewide strike, stating that it has no intention of embarking on industrial action. In a statement addressed to the Head of Service of Kaduna State, the union clarified that it was aware of unverified reports circulating on social media alleging an impending strike.
The union commended the Kaduna State Government, led by Governor Uba Sani, for its proactive policies and interventions aimed at improving the health sector. These efforts include the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers, promotion and implementation of outstanding promotions, and the upgrading and renovation of health facilities. The state government has also supplied essential medical equipment to primary health care centers and general hospitals, and provided ambulances to enhance referral services.
Additionally, the government is recruiting 1,800 health professionals under the State Primary Health Care Board, with over 90% of the workforce being members of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria. The union stated that there is no justification for disrupting industrial harmony through a strike and expressed optimism that the state government is aware of its outstanding demands and will address them within the year.
The statement comes after reports that nurses in Kaduna State had threatened a possible statewide strike in 2026 over the alleged failure of health authorities to conduct promotion exercises. The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Kaduna State Council, had expressed frustration over the neglect of nurses’ career progression by the Ministry of Health and its parastatals. However, the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria has assured the government of its commitment to industrial peace, dialogue, and continued cooperation, urging the public to disregard the rumors of a planned strike.
The development is significant, as it aims to maintain stability in the state’s healthcare system. The union’s stance is expected to reassure patients and healthcare workers, as the state government continues to work on addressing the outstanding demands of health workers. With the recruitment of new health professionals and the upgrade of health facilities, the state government is taking steps to improve healthcare services in Kaduna State.
