The Federal Government has lifted the “No Work, No Pay” directive imposed during the 84-day nationwide strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and approved the immediate payment of January 2026 salaries for all affected members.
The decision was announced following a conciliation meeting between the Federal Government and JOHESU leadership. The union subsequently directed its members across the country to resume work immediately, according to a statement by Ado Bako, Assistant Director, Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
The prolonged industrial action had severely disrupted services in public health facilities nationwide, prompting intensified negotiations focused on restoring stability and addressing workers’ welfare concerns.
Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described the resolution as a demonstration of good faith and dialogue.
“The Federal Government remains fully committed to the welfare, dignity, and professional advancement of all health workers across Nigeria. The resolution reached demonstrates that dialogue, mutual respect, and good faith remain the most effective tools for resolving industrial disputes in our health sector,” Salako said.
On the reversal of punitive measures, the minister added:
“We recognise the sacrifices made by our health workers and the critical role they play in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Nigerians. Government has therefore approved the immediate payment of January 2026 salaries and assures all JOHESU members that no worker will be victimised, sanctioned, or intimidated for participating in the industrial action.”
He reaffirmed ongoing engagements with health sector unions on unresolved issues, stating:
“This administration is determined to build a health sector where workers feel valued, patients receive quality care, and institutions are strengthened for long-term sustainability. We will continue negotiations on the Collective Bargaining Agreement and prioritise outstanding issues relating to the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).”
Regarding funding for salary adjustments, Salako noted:
“The Federal Government will continue to back its commitments with concrete policy and budgetary actions. The inclusion of salary adjustment provisions in the 2026 Appropriation framework reflects our seriousness about sustainable solutions for the health workforce.”
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare said the agreements aim to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services nationwide.
JOHESU had suspended its nationwide strike on February 6, 2026, after 84 days. The action began on November 15, 2025, in protest against the government’s delay in implementing the reviewed Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and other long-standing structural and welfare grievances.
