JOHESU Suspends Strike After Government Dialogue

​The healthcare crisis in Lagos State has reached a significant turning point as the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) officially suspended its industrial action. The decision follows a decisive intervention by the Lagos State House of Assembly, bringing an end to a strike that had severely disrupted medical services across the state for nearly three months.

​The Lagos State Government, through the Honourable Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, lauded the union’s decision as a “demonstration of shared responsibility.” Speaking after a high-level conciliatory meeting, Ayantayo emphasized that the state remains committed to the welfare of its allied health professionals.

​The Path to Resolution

​The strike, which began in late 2025, was fueled by demands for an adjustment to the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), improved working conditions, and the provision of staff buses to alleviate commuting challenges. While the national body of JOHESU had suspended its 84-day nationwide strike on February 6, 2026, the Lagos chapter had initially held out, seeking specific local commitments.

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​The breakthrough came over the weekend after intensive deliberations involving the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC).

​”We appreciate JOHESU for embracing dialogue. The administration remains steadfast in promoting equitable treatment and sustainable welfare programs for all health sector employees,” Ayantayo stated.

​Rebuilding Public Trust

​With the strike now suspended, health workers—including nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists—have been directed to return to their duty posts immediately. The state government has assured the union that no member will be victimized for participating in the industrial action, a key condition set by the union leadership.

​As normalcy returns to public hospitals, the Commissioner thanked Lagosians for their patience and reaffirmed the government’s goal of ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality healthcare for every resident.