Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) Demand Urgent Reforms and Fair Compensation
Health Workers across the nation have begun an indefinite strike following the directive issued by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), and the Assembly of Health Care Professional Associations. At a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Obinna Ogbonna, the National Vice President of JOHESU, announced the decision.
JOHESU represents various unions and associations, including the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria , Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, Senior Staff Association of Universities’ Teaching Hospitals Research Institutes and Associated Institutions, and AHPA.
The primary demands of the health workers include:
1. Immediate approval and implementation of the Technical Committee report on CONHESS (Consolidated Health Salary Structure) adjustment by the Federal Government.
2. Prompt payment of the omitted and shortfall amounts in the COVID-19 hazard/inducement allowances for affected health workers in Federal Health Institutions.
3. Recognition of health workers in non-core hospital facilities for the payment of the new hazard allowance.
4. Timely payment and integration of peculiar allowances for health workers under JOHESU/AHPA.
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Unconditional implementation of the Pharmacist Consultant cadre.
Unconditional payment of all withheld salaries of Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Jos University Teaching Hospital, and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, including the April and May 2018 salaries of members at NOFIC, Azare.
Speedy implementation of the increase in retirement age from 60 to 65 years and 70 years for Consultants in the health professions.
JOHESU’s leadership previously issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government in a letter dated May 9, 2023, citing alleged inconsistencies in the ongoing negotiations to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers.
Dr. Obinna emphasized, “Due to the nonchalant and biased attitude of the Federal Ministry of Health towards JOHESU members and in line with the resolution of the expanded National Executive Council meeting held on Monday, May 8, 2023, our members in Federal Health Institutions nationwide have been instructed to withdraw their services indefinitely starting from 00:00 hours on Thursday, May 25, 2023.”
He further stated that the union is committed to collaborating with the government and stakeholders to improve the health system through necessary reforms in the public interest.
As of the time of reporting, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, the Minister of Health, had been contacted for a response but had not replied to the text message sent regarding the matter.