The Federal Ministry of Health has ordered the strict enforcement of the “no work, no pay” policy against members of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) currently on strike across federal hospitals.
In a circular dated January 8, 2026, signed by Abisola Adegoke, Director of Hospital Services, on behalf of Coordinating Minister Ali Pate, all Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) and Medical Directors (MDs) were directed to ensure essential health services continue despite the industrial action.
The directive specifically requires hospitals to maintain critical units such as accident and emergency, labour wards, and intensive care units. CMDs and MDs are also empowered to employ locum staff to cover striking personnel.
“You are to ensure strict enforcement of the Federal Government’s ‘no work, no pay’ policy on all striking JOHESU members and any other staff who may embark on strike,” the circular read.
It also emphasized the protection of non-striking staff, patients, and hospital property, urging managers to provide regular updates on the strike’s impact.
JOHESU launched an indefinite nationwide strike on November 15, 2025, citing the federal government’s failure to implement the adjusted Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and resolve long-standing welfare and systemic challenges affecting health workers.
The union, which represents the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria, Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals, Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions, and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, said the delayed CONHESS implementation was the main trigger, alongside other unresolved issues.
The Ministry’s move is seen as an effort to compel compliance while ensuring critical health services remain operational for Nigerians amid the ongoing industrial action.
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