Nigerian Health Workers Union Issues Strike Ultimatum Over Unpaid Salary Adjustments
Nigeria’s Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has threatened to launch a renewed nationwide strike by April if the federal government does not implement long-promised salary adjustments. The ultimatum follows a recent suspension of industrial action and highlights persistent grievances over pay inequality in the health sector.
The warning was delivered by Dr. Bassey Icha, Chairman of JOHESU’s Cross River Chapter, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday. It comes after the union suspended a strike that had begun on November 15, 2025, and was halted by national leadership on February 6. Work resumed following member congresses at various units and branches.
At the core of the dispute is the non-review of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), which has remained static since its introduction in 2009. Dr. Icha contrasted this with the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for doctors, which has undergone multiple reviews, creating a widening pay gap within the health workforce. He clarified that JOHESU is not seeking parity with doctors but a fair review aligned with government salary templates.
The union accuses the government of failing to enact several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed since 2014. Specifically, a 2021 memorandum forwarded to the Budget Office has yet to be processed by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. The current suspension was granted after the government requested more time, with a committee’s approval now expected by April. “Failure to achieve positive outcomes by the end of April would force JOHESU back to industrial action,” Dr. Icha stated.
He further cited research indicating that Nigeria pays its health workers less than most West African countries, including Ghana. Beyond salaries, Dr. Icha urged the government to prioritise training, modern equipment, and improved working conditions to strengthen national healthcare delivery.
The standoff underscores deep-seated issues in Nigeria’s health sector remuneration and could disrupt services if the April deadline passes without resolution. The government’s response in the coming weeks will determine whether the sector avoids another major industrial dispute.
