The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has threatened a nationwide strike if the Federal Government delays salary adjustments beyond April. Dr. Bassey Icha, JOHESU Chairman in Cross River State, revealed this in Calabar during an interview.
The union previously suspended its strike, which started on November 15, 2025, and halted on February 6. Work resumed after members held congresses in their branches, confirming the strike stemmed from non-review of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure, introduced in 2009. Doctors under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure have received multiple reviews, creating a widening pay gap.
Icha emphasized that JOHESU does not seek parity with doctors’ salaries but requests a fair review using government salary templates. Several Memoranda of Understanding since 2014 remain unimplemented, while a 2021 memo is pending approval by the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission.
JOHESU agreed to suspend the strike after government intervention, allowing committee review until April. Failure to reach a positive outcome would trigger renewed industrial action.Research indicates Nigeria pays health workers less than most West African countries, including Ghana. Icha urged the government to prioritize training, modern equipment, and improved working conditions to strengthen healthcare delivery nationwide.
