Health workers in Kaduna State have commenced an indefinite strike, citing the state government’s failure to address their long-standing demands. The strike is being led by three key professional bodies: the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), and the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN).
In a joint statement issued by Comrade Ishaka Yakubu (NANNM), Mansur S. Halidu (AHAPN), and Comrade Jesse David (AMLSN), the health workers expressed their frustration with the government’s inaction despite numerous communications and the suspension of an earlier warning strike.
“We regret to inform the public that we are left with no option but to embark on this indefinite strike, following the government’s continued failure to meet our demands,” the statement read.
The workers’ key demands include the full implementation of the remaining 30% of the 2009 Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for employees under the Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Board, as well as the 2021 hazard allowance. They are also calling for the implementation of the 2019 CONHESS at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital and payment of outstanding arrears for workers recruited in 2023.
Additionally, the unions demanded the immediate release of all outstanding promotions and their prompt implementation, along with the corresponding arrears.
“Despite suspending our warning strike two months ago in good faith, there has been no progress. This disregard for the welfare of health workers is unacceptable,” the statement continued.
The unions urged the government to act swiftly to fulfill its promises, stressing that the strike, though regrettable, was necessary to protect the rights and well-being of health workers in the state.
“The health and well-being of the people of Kaduna depend on a motivated and properly compensated workforce. We sincerely apologise to the public for any inconvenience caused by this strike, but the authorities’ failure to honour their agreements has left us with no other choice,” the statement concluded.
The indefinite strike is expected to significantly impact healthcare services across the state, as workers demand their rightful entitlements and improvements in working conditions.
