Lagos Health Workers Embark on Warning Strike

Healthcare services in Lagos State have been disrupted as a coalition of health sector unions began a three-day warning strike. The strike, which started on December 11, is a response to the state government’s failure to implement adjustments to the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers.

The unions involved in the strike include the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), and Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).

According to Oloruntoba Odumosu, Secretary of NANNM, the strike is a last resort after repeated attempts to negotiate with the state government failed to yield results. “We have been patient and have given the government enough time to address our demands, but unfortunately, they have not taken us seriously,” Odumosu said. He expressed frustration that the government has not provided a clear timeline for implementing the CONHESS adjustments, despite approving a 35% CONMESS adjustment for doctors in October 2024.

Odumosu also lamented that the government seems indifferent to the plight of health workers, who play a critical role in delivering quality healthcare to Lagos residents. “It is disheartening that the government has not shown any commitment to addressing our demands, despite our contributions to the healthcare system,” he said. The strike will affect all state-owned health facilities, including the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), general hospitals, and primary health centres (PHCs).

Kamaldeen Kabiawu, State Secretary of NUAHP, also condemned the delayed implementation of the 25% CONHESS adjustment, emphasizing that it is essential for the well-being of health workers and the overall healthcare system. “The delay in implementing the CONHESS adjustment has led to a significant disparity in the salaries of health workers in Lagos State, compared to their counterparts in other states,” Kabiawu said.

The health sector unions are demanding the full implementation of the CONHESS adjustment for all eligible health workers in Lagos State. The strike is expected to last until December 13. Odumosu emphasized that the unions are committed to finding a resolution to the issue, but will not back down until their demands are met. “We are willing to negotiate and find a solution, but we will not be intimidated or coerced into accepting anything less than what we deserve,” he said.