Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Health sector unions in Nigeria mobilise for a nationwide protest in Abuja on Thursday opposing proposed legislation they warn could reshape the country’s healthcare system.
The action, led by Joint Health Sector Unions and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, targets the Health Sector Executive Bills 2026 currently before the National Assembly, according to a statement issued by the union on Thursday morning.
Participants are set to converge at Unity Fountain before marching to the parliament complex.
JOHESU National Secretary Martin Egbanubi says the protest is necessary to raise awareness.
“This is a critical moment for healthcare professionals and the sector,” he says.
The unions warn the bills could alter professional roles, welfare structures and governance within the health system.
The proposed legislation comes amid ongoing challenges, including workforce shortages, funding gaps and migration of healthcare workers abroad.
“Members must educate the public on the implications,” Egbanubi adds.
JOHESU, which includes major unions such as the Medical and Health Workers Union, has a history of industrial actions over welfare and policy disputes.
The planned demonstration signals renewed tension in Nigeria’s fragile health sector, with potential implications for service delivery nationwide.
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Korede Abdullah 
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