Lagos Health Workers Issue Notice of 3-Day Warning Strike

Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Healthcare workers in Lagos State, comprising the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, the Joint Health Sector Unions, and the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, have announced a three-day warning strike.
The strike, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, December 11, and end on Friday, December 13, 2024, aims to press for the implementation of the adjusted Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers in the state.
In separate letters addressed to their members and the Lagos State Head of Service, the unions expressed frustration over the government’s failure to address their concerns despite multiple engagements and consultations.
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) stated, “A three-day warning strike has been scheduled to commence on Wednesday, 11th December 2024, and will run until Friday, 13th December 2024, alongside other affected sister unions within the health sector.”
The NANNM also criticized the government’s “divisive approach” of selectively implementing the adjustment for doctors under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure while neglecting other health professionals.
Similarly, the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) decried the delayed implementation of the 25% CONHESS adjustment, especially after the government approved a 35% CONMESS adjustment for doctors in October 2024.
The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) also condemned the government’s handling of the matter, describing it as divisive and demoralizing to other health workers.
“Despite the critical roles we play in ensuring quality healthcare delivery in Lagos State, the government appears indifferent to our legitimate demands,” JOHESU stated.
The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) called on members to prepare for the strike, emphasizing that “all branches must stand united to push for the rightful implementation of the CONHESS adjustment for all health workers.”
The unions have scheduled a joint congress meeting for today (Monday), December 9, 2024, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to strategize and provide further directives.
They urged members to remain resolute and participate actively in the strike, reiterating that “injury to one is an injury to all.”