In a move to ensure stability within the state’s critical healthcare sector, the Kaduna State Council of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) has issued a formal and unequivocal denial of social media rumours suggesting an impending state-wide strike. The clarification aims to reassure the public and maintain the current industrial harmony.
The union’s statement, addressed to the Kaduna State Head of Service and signed by Sani Yusuf Saulawa on behalf of the Chairman, directly confronts what it calls “unverified reports.” It leaves no room for ambiguity: “The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Kaduna State Council, has no plan whatsoever to embark on any strike action in the state.” This firm denial is significant in a Nigerian context where industrial actions in the health sector are not uncommon, often stemming from unresolved disputes over wages, working conditions, and infrastructure.
Rather than listing grievances, the statement took the notable step of commending the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani for its “proactive policies and interventions.” This public endorsement suggests a currently functional dialogue channel between the union and the government, which is a positive indicator for sustained service delivery. The union provided a detailed list of government actions that have contributed to this stable environment:
- Salary Structure Implementation: The approval and implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS/CONMESS). This is a crucial benchmark for health workers, as delays or non-implementation of such consolidated scales are a frequent trigger for strikes across Nigeria.
- Career Progression: The processing and implementation of three years’ worth of outstanding promotions. Addressing promotion backlogs is vital for staff morale and retention, preventing the frustration that can lead to industrial unrest.
- Infrastructure Investment: The upgrading and renovation of 255 health facilities and general hospitals, coupled with the supply of essential medical equipment. This directly impacts the workers’ ability to perform their duties effectively and safely.
- Operational Support: The provision of ambulances to enhance referral services, a critical component of a functioning healthcare ecosystem.
- Workforce Expansion: The ongoing recruitment of 1,800 health professionals under the State Primary Health Care Board (SPHCB), which can help alleviate chronic understaffing.
The union underscored its stake in maintaining peace by revealing that over 90% of the workforce under the SPHCB are its members. This high membership density means the union’s commitment to dialogue directly translates to statewide stability in primary healthcare services. “There is no justification or intention to disrupt industrial harmony,” the statement stressed, framing strike action as counterproductive to the progress being made.
However, the statement was not without a forward-looking caveat. The union expressed optimism that the state government was aware of its outstanding demands and would address them within the year. This indicates that while a strike is off the table for now, the union expects continued engagement on unresolved issues. This balanced approach—affirming cooperation while acknowledging pending matters—is a hallmark of mature industrial relations.
In conclusion, MHWUN assured the government of its commitment to industrial peace, dialogue, and continued cooperation, and urged the public to disregard the rumours. For Kaduna residents, this official denial is more than just a refutation of gossip; it is a signal that constructive engagement between health workers and the government is currently preventing the service disruptions seen in other states, thereby safeguarding access to essential healthcare.
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
