FG begins negotiations with health unions to avert strikes
The federal government has begun negotiations with major health sector unions as part of efforts to prioritise the welfare of health workers, prevent industrial disruptions, and strengthen healthcare delivery across the country.
The move follows the inauguration of a collective bargaining committee on Friday by Muhammad Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare.
The committee, set up to address longstanding disputes and prevent potential strikes, officially kicks off structured negotiations with health unions and associations, in line with Articles 1 and 2 of the guidelines on collective bargaining agreement machinery.
In recent months, unions in the health sector have threatened strikes over unresolved welfare and working condition concerns. The unions involved include the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM).
Pate said the committee would focus on remuneration, improved working conditions, professional development opportunities, and overall welfare packages for health workers.
“The convocation of this Committee is a milestone towards building a fair and sustainable framework for our health workforce. Health workers are central to our mission of delivering quality healthcare, and it is our duty to ensure that their needs are addressed with sincerity, transparency, and mutual respect,” he said.
Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, minister of labour and employment, described collective bargaining as key to achieving stability in the health sector.
“Collective bargaining is a proven pathway to industrial peace and sectoral stability. Through this process, we intend to find common ground that ensures the welfare of our health workers while protecting the public’s access to uninterrupted, quality healthcare,” he said.
Iziaq Salako, minister of state for health and social welfare, said the inauguration of the committee was a critical step in the health sector reform agenda.
“By listening to the voices of our health professionals, we are not just negotiating terms. We are shaping the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria,” he said.
He urged all parties to engage in the talks with good faith, compromise, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of Nigerians.
The inauguration in Abuja was attended by Dingyadi, Salako, officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), the federal ministry of finance, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and the Budget Office of the Federation.
