The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has suspended its nationwide strike after 84 days of industrial action, raising hopes for the gradual restoration of services across public health facilities.
The decision followed an expanded National Executive Council (NEC) emergency meeting held in Abuja on Friday. The gathering reviewed the outcome of a conciliation meeting between the Federal Government and the union at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, JOHESU said the strike was suspended to pave the way for the implementation of the terms of settlement reached with the Federal Government. The union explained that the emergency session was convened to assess the progress made during the conciliation process and determine the next line of action.
The development signals a turning point in the prolonged dispute that disrupted activities in many government-owned health institutions nationwide. Patients and hospital administrators have faced sustained pressure during the strike, with concerns mounting over the strain on the healthcare system.
JOHESU expressed optimism that the agreed terms would be faithfully implemented, indicating its readiness to work with the authorities in the interest of stabilising the health sector. The union, however, stressed that it would continue to monitor compliance with the agreement.
Stakeholders across the health sector are expected to keep a close watch as implementation begins, with expectations that the suspension will translate into improved service delivery and renewed engagement between the parties. Further details of the agreement are anticipated in the coming days.
