LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): The Lagos State Government has welcomed the decision of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) to suspend their recent strike, which had disrupted healthcare services across state-owned hospitals. Officials described the move as “a demonstration of goodwill and shared responsibility toward safeguarding public healthcare in Nigeria’s commercial capital.”
The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, speaking after a meeting between government representatives and union executives, commended JOHESU for embracing dialogue and constructive engagement. He noted that both parties agreed to sustain discussions while the union convenes its congress to formally communicate resolutions and restore normalcy in public healthcare facilities.
Ayantayo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing JOHESU’s demands for improved welfare benefits within established regulations and agreed timelines. He stressed that the administration remains dedicated to equitable treatment, better working conditions, and sustainable welfare programs for health sector employees.
The Commissioner also expressed gratitude to the Lagos State House of Assembly, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their roles in facilitating the resolution. He extended appreciation to residents for their patience, understanding, and cooperation during the strike, assuring the public of uninterrupted access to quality healthcare services going forward.
JOHESU in Lagos had joined a nationwide strike earlier in 2026, which lasted about 84 days. The industrial action severely affected public hospitals, leading to disrupted services, increased workload on doctors, patient suffering and delays, heightened public health concerns, and economic strain as families turned to costly private healthcare while public hospitals lost revenue. The strike also strained trust between health workers and government authorities.
