Patients Left in Limbo as Health Workers’ Strike Drags Into Third Month

Patients Left in Limbo as Health Workers’ Strike Drags Into Third Month

Patients across Nigeria are facing deepening hardship as a nationwide strike by members of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) stretches into its third month, crippling healthcare delivery in public hospitals and leaving essential services largely unavailable.

The industrial action, which commenced on 15 November 2025, is rooted in a prolonged disagreement between JOHESU and the federal government over unpaid salary adjustments under the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), alongside broader demands for improved welfare and working conditions.

Checks across major public health facilities in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Kaduna and Akwa Ibom reveal hospitals operating at skeletal levels. Critical departments such as laboratories, pharmacies, medical records and diagnostic units were either shut or barely functioning, compelling many patients to abandon public hospitals or seek costly alternatives in private facilities.

At the National Hospital in Abuja, outpatient and administrative services were largely suspended, emergency access was limited, and records offices operated minimally. Similar scenes played out in Lagos and other states, where patients reported long delays, overcrowded wards and the burden of purchasing medications outside hospital premises due to closed pharmacies.

In response, the federal government has enforced a “no work, no pay” policy against striking JOHESU members, while maintaining that essential health services must continue. The union, however, has remained resolute, insisting the strike will not be suspended until concrete action is taken on the adjustment of CONHESS.

Health advocates and union leaders warn that the prolonged disruption is placing vulnerable populations at heightened risk, particularly pregnant women, patients requiring chronic care and those in need of emergency treatment. As the standoff persists, concerns continue to mount over worsening health outcomes and growing barriers to affordable care across the country.

Photo credit: Sahara Reporters

Blessing Anolaba
Editorial & Creative Correspondent
A storyteller and journalist passionate about telling stories for policy change and impact.