The Federal Government and the striking health workers under the auspices of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) are set to meet again today to deliberate on the prolonged strike that has disrupted health services in the country.
This meeting is coming after several attempts to end the strike action which started on April 6, 2021. The striking health workers are demanding payment of hazard allowances, adjustment of consolidated health salary structure (CONHESS), and payment of arrears among other issues.
During the previous meetings with the government, no agreement was reached, and this has led to an escalation in the already tense situation. Patients have been left to bear the brunt of the situation as they are either turned back or referred to private hospitals where they have to pay exorbitant fees.
The effects of the strike have been felt across the country, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage communities. This has left citizens in a precarious situation as they are caught in between the government and the striking health workers.
Observers have called on the government to address the demands of the health workers to prevent the situation from degenerating further.
However, the government has maintained that it is doing its best to meet the demands of the health workers, but the process is slow due to bureaucratic procedures.
The meeting today is expected to bring about a resolution to the ongoing impasse and the hope is that both parties will come to a favourable agreement that will see the health workers return to work promptly. The Federal Government is urging the striking health workers to consider the plight of Nigerians and call off the strike, while the health workers are insisting that their demands be met before they return to work.
The outcome of this meeting will determine the immediate future of healthcare services in Nigeria, and Nigerians are hopeful that a resolution will be found soon.
