Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ezekiel Oyero
Published on 2024-03-11 20:52:44
Healthcare workers in Oyo State, represented by the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), have decided to suspend their warning strike that was initiated due to the government’s failure to meet their demands over the past two years. This decision was made following assurances from the Management of the State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and State Health Management Board (SHMB) that their concerns and demands were being addressed by the government.
The health care workers who participated in the strike included laboratory scientists, physiotherapists, dental technologists, dental therapists, medical social workers, radiographers, nutritionists and dietitians, as well as health records and information managers in all general and specialist teaching hospitals in the state. The strike was called off by NUAHP chairperson, Olanrewaju Ajani, who directed all members to resume work immediately.
In a statement released on Monday, Mr. Ajani emphasized the positive steps taken by the government to address their demands and expressed appreciation for Governor Seyi Makinde’s concern for the welfare of civil servants and the general populace. The union has instructed its members to return to work starting from Monday, the 11th of March, 2024.
However, the union has given the government a 21-day ultimatum to begin responding to their demands. Failure to do so within the specified period may lead to a disruption of industrial harmony in the health sector within all state-owned facilities. Some of the demands put forth by the NUAHP include the implementation of the new national hazard allowance for health professionals, the introduction of a teaching allowance for members involved in training interns and students, and adjustments in the CONHESS table for its members in Oyo State, similar to those implemented for medical doctors in 2021.
The NUAHP’s decision to suspend the warning strike signifies a temporary resolution to the ongoing labor dispute in the state’s healthcare sector. By engaging in dialogue and expressing their concerns, the healthcare workers have demonstrated their commitment to advocating for their rights and improving working conditions in the health facilities. It is essential for both the government and the union to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiation to address the concerns raised by the healthcare workers and ensure a sustainable and harmonious work environment in the state’s healthcare sector.
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