The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has announced a three-day warning strike in Lagos State, set to begin on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, and run through to Friday, December 13, 2024. The strike, which will be carried out in collaboration with other unions within the health sector, is a response to the Lagos State Government’s failure to address longstanding grievances, particularly concerning the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
In an official letter dated December 5, 2024, and signed by NANNM’s Secretary, Oloruntoba Odumosu, the union declared its decision to embark on the warning strike in solidarity with other affected health sector unions. The letter reads: “The three-day warning strike is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, and will continue until Friday, December 13, 2024, in collaboration with other sister unions in the health sector.”
NANNM has strongly criticized the Lagos State Government for what it considers unfair and discriminatory actions regarding the implementation of the CONHESS adjustment. The union voiced its dissatisfaction with the government’s selective approach, noting that while doctors under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure have received their salary adjustments, other critical healthcare professionals have been left out. “The government’s failure to implement the adjustment for other health professionals is intolerable and must be addressed,” the union stated.
Adding to the growing discontent, the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) has also voiced its frustration over the delayed implementation of the 25% CONHESS adjustment. In a letter signed by its State Secretary, Kabiawu Kamaldeen, NUAHP emphasized the need for unity and collective action. “This notice serves as a clarion call for mobilisation and preparedness. Let us be resolute in this struggle for a fruitful outcome,” the letter stated, urging members to prepare for the upcoming strike and advocate for a fair resolution.
Similarly, the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) have also expressed strong dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of their demands. JOHESU issued a statement condemning the government’s disregard for the vital roles that non-medical health workers play in the provision of quality healthcare. “Despite the essential contributions we make to healthcare delivery in Lagos State, the government’s response to our legitimate requests has been nothing short of neglect,” the union remarked, describing the government’s actions as divisive and demoralizing for health workers.
In light of these ongoing issues, the unions are scheduled to hold a joint congress on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to formulate further strategies and mobilize their members for the warning strike. In a statement, MHWUN stressed the importance of unity, urging all branches to come together and advocate for the rightful implementation of the CONHESS adjustment for all health workers.
The planned strike highlights the growing discontent among healthcare workers in Lagos State, particularly over salary inequities and unmet commitments from the government. Despite their crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of the state’s population, health professionals continue to face significant challenges in securing fair compensation for their work. The strike action is a direct response to these unresolved issues, with the unions determined to push for a resolution that ensures equitable treatment for all health workers in the state.
