Relief has finally come for Nigerians as the Federal Government and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) reached a truce, bringing an end to the crippling 84-day nationwide health strike.
The breakthrough followed a high-level conciliation meeting in Abuja, after which JOHESU ordered its members across the country to return to work immediately in the interest of patients and national health security.
In a major concession, the Federal Government withdrew its earlier “No Work, No Pay” directive slammed on the striking workers and approved the immediate payment of January 2026 salaries.
Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described the resolution as a victory for dialogue and mutual respect.
“The Federal Government remains fully committed to the welfare, dignity and professional advancement of all health workers. Dialogue remains the most effective tool for resolving disputes in our health sector,” he said.
Salako assured that no JOHESU member would be victimised, sanctioned or intimidated for participating in the strike, acknowledging the sacrifices made by health workers during the prolonged standoff.
The government also pledged to continue negotiations on the Collective Bargaining Agreement and address lingering issues surrounding the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
In a move aimed at long-term peace, the minister disclosed that provisions for the proposed salary adjustments would be captured in the 2026 Appropriation Act, based on recommendations of the existing technical committee.
The Ministry of Health commended the “spirit of patriotism and responsibility” shown by both sides and assured Nigerians that efforts are underway to restore full and uninterrupted healthcare services nationwide.
For millions of patients who have endured weeks of disruption, the suspension of the strike signals a long-awaited return to normalcy in public hospitals across the country.
Strike Over! FG Bows, Pays January Salaries as JOHESU Suspends 84-Day Shutdown
