The Federal Government has convened discussions with health workers, under the umbrella of the Joint Health Workers Unions (JOHESU) to address key issues such as pay grade adjustments, the condition of the health workforce, pending arrears, and setting timelines for the establishment of boards at tertiary health institutions.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate disclosed this on his X handle @muhammadpate, on Thursday.
JOHESU consists of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria; the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals; the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals and Associated Institutions; and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Associated Institutions.
It was earlier reported that JOHESU wrote to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Finance, demanding an upward adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
CONHESS is the salary structure for health workers in pharmacy, and medical laboratory science, among others.
JOHESU stated that it could recommence its halted strike if the Federal Government fails to take proactive measures concerning the salary structure.
In May last year, health workers initiated a strike, which they halted after 12 days on June 5, 2023, subsequent to a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
Meeting JOHESU
Prof Pate on Thursday, however, emphasized the significance of building trust and confidence among various actors and stakeholders within the sector to revitalize Nigeria’s health system.
“Building trust and confidence in our policies and programmes among various actors and stakeholders within the sector is important to the renewal of Nigeria’s health system,” he said.
“This involves respectfully engaging, listening, and seeking advice from health workers’ unions, civil society, and traditional and faith leaders for guidance on transforming our country’s healthcare system.”
He said the government engaged in productive discussions with representatives from major health unions, which collectively represent over 90 per cent of the workforce under the umbrella of JOHESU, as part of its ongoing consultative dialogue on pressing issues in the health sector.
“We acknowledge and thank you for sharing pertinent concerns regarding pay grade adjustments, the state of the health workforce, outstanding arrears, and the establishment of timelines for forming boards at tertiary health institutions.
“In line with Mr President’s @officialABAT Renewed Hope Agenda for improved health outcomes for all Nigerians, and the core role of JOHESU, we value and are committed to sustaining the cordial and trusting relationship we have developed since this administration.”
He said the government is working towards ensuring progress in resolving the outstanding legacy issues that have lingered for more than 10 years.