Health workers’ strike disrupts public hospitals nationwide
The ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has severely affected government hospitals across Nigeria. Many patients have been left stranded, with key services like pharmacies and laboratories shut down in several federal institutions. While some state hospitals remain operational, others are also experiencing strikes by different health worker groups. Ayodeji Ogunrinu, Adewale Adeosun, and other union leaders have voiced concerns about the impact on both patients and hospital staff.
What we know
- The JOHESU strike has entered its third month, crippling services in federal hospitals and forcing patients to seek care elsewhere.
- State hospitals in Ekiti and Benue have mostly stayed open, but some state facilities face their own strikes by resident doctors, nurses, and midwives.
- Ayodeji Ogunrinu and other union leaders say the strike has deprived communities and staff of essential medical services.
- At Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, the strike has caused a loss of up to N1.5bn in internally generated revenue and halted many surgeries.
- Patients are increasingly turning to private hospitals, while remaining hospital staff report increased workloads and operational challenges.
