The Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) has demanded the immediate implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) adjustment for its members and other healthcare workers.
NUAHP criticized the Federal Government for failing to replicate the salary adjustment granted to medical doctors under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) in 2014.
The union expressed frustration over the government’s continued delay, describing it as a violation of the collective bargaining agreement.
NUAHP recalled that the agitation began in 2014 when the government adjusted CONMESS but excluded CONHESS, creating a disparity in the health sector’s salary structures.
In a communiqué issued on Tuesday after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Jos, Plateau State, the union reiterated its stance.
Union President Kamal Ibrahim and General Secretary Martin Egbanubi signed the communiqué, which strongly condemned the government’s inaction.
The NEC noted that despite signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) on October 29, 2024, the government has yet to honor its commitments.
That MoU followed a conciliation meeting that led to JOHESU’s decision to suspend a nationwide strike.
NUAHP emphasized that the government’s failure to implement the agreed terms threatens industrial peace and undermines the healthcare system.
The union warned that if the government continues to delay, health workers may resume the suspended strike.
“NEC-in-Session warns about the implications of resuming the suspended strike on the health sector and the nation in general,” the communiqué stated.
NUAHP urged President Bola Tinubu to fulfill the promise he made to JOHESU leaders during a meeting held at Aso Rock on June 5, 2023.
The union called on Tinubu to direct all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to resolve the salary dispute urgently.
It specifically asked the Presidential Committee on Salaries to act swiftly to ensure equity and industrial harmony.
NUAHP argued that resolving the issue is a matter of right, not privilege, for health workers.
The union insisted that justice and fairness must guide the government’s actions.
It also reminded the government that the health sector cannot function effectively under unfair labor practices.
NUAHP reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its members.
The union concluded by stating that further delay would leave health workers with no choice but to take action in the interest of justice.
