Breaking news in nigeria health sector strike
Here are some recent updates on the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) in Nigeria:
Latest Updates:
- Strike Enters 10th Day: The strike by JOHESU, which began on April 17, has entered its 10th day, with no signs of a resolution in sight. The unions are demanding improved working conditions, better pay, and the implementation of a new salary structure.
- Patients Suffering: The strike has led to a shortage of medical personnel, causing patients to suffer and in some cases, leading to delays in treatment and even deaths.
- Government Refuses to Budge: The Federal Government has refused to budge on the unions' demands, insisting that the strike is illegal and that the unions are not entitled to the demands they are making.
- Unions Threaten to Embark on Nationwide Protest: JOHESU has threatened to embark on a nationwide protest if the government fails to meet their demands. The unions have also called on Nigerians to support their strike.
- Health Facilities in Crisis: Many health facilities across the country are in crisis, with patients being turned away and medical personnel refusing to work.
Background:
The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) is a coalition of health workers' unions in Nigeria, including the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), and the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI).
The unions have been demanding improved working conditions, better pay, and the implementation of a new salary structure. They are also demanding the reversal of the promotion of non-medical officers to medical positions, which they claim is a threat to the integrity of the health sector.
Government's Response:
The Federal Government has refused to meet the unions' demands, insisting that the strike is illegal and that the unions are not entitled to the demands they are making. The government has also accused the unions of being responsible for the suffering of patients and has threatened to take legal action against them.
International Community's Response:
The international community has expressed concern over the strike and its impact on patients in Nigeria. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on the government and the unions to resolve the dispute amicably and to prioritize the health and well-being of patients.
What's Next:
The strike is expected to continue until the unions' demands are met. The government has refused to budge, and the unions have threatened to embark on a nationwide protest if their demands are not met. The situation is likely to remain tense until a resolution is reached.