The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has thrown its full support behind the ongoing industrial action by the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), criticizing the President Bola Tinubu-led government for “persistent betrayal” of agreements and neglect of health workers’ welfare.

In a statement jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Andrew Emelieze, and National Administrative Secretary, Ogundele Ayo, the Forum expressed frustration over what it described as “years of neglect, broken promises, and failed engagements” with health sector unions.

“The Federal Government must understand that health workers are the backbone of Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system. They work tirelessly, often under harsh and under-resourced conditions, to serve millions of Nigerians. It is only fair, just, and morally right that the government respects agreements it freely entered into and prioritizes the welfare of these essential workers,” the statement said.

JOHESU, which represents a wide coalition of health workers including nurses, laboratory scientists, pharmacists, and other non-medical professionals, has been on strike to demand the implementation of agreements reached in prior negotiations. These include improved wages, hazard allowances, and better working conditions.

The FWF described the crisis in the health sector as “a national emergency,” citing the mass exodus of trained professionals, poor working conditions, and neglect of welfare as factors pushing the system to the breaking point.

“The deterioration of working conditions, the shortage of personnel, and the exodus of qualified professionals pose grave risks to citizens’ wellbeing. When health workers are treated unjustly, patient care, access to essential services, and the overall resilience of the healthcare system suffer directly,” the Forum stated.

The Forum urged the federal government to:

• Immediately re-engage JOHESU in sincere and results-oriented dialogue.
• Implement all existing agreements without delay.
• Address long-standing issues affecting health workers, including welfare, promotion arrears, hazard allowances, working tools, and overall conditions of service.
• Strengthen the healthcare workforce through policies that promote retention, motivation, and professional dignity.

The FWF warned that continued disregard for labour agreements would fuel further industrial unrest and destabilize essential public services.

“The wellbeing of health workers is the wellbeing of the Nigerian people, and their struggle is a struggle for a stronger and more equitable healthcare system,” the Forum concluded.