Nigeria Clears Back Salaries, Ends Health Workers’ 84‑Day Strike

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the payment of January 2026 salaries for health workers and reversed its earlier “No Work, No Pay” policy that had been enforced during an 84‑day nationwide strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).

The strike, which had paralyzed public healthcare services, was called off after a conciliation meeting between union leaders and government representatives. JOHESU has instructed its members to return to work immediately to restore essential health services.

The government stated that the decision reflects its commitment to dialogue and fairness in resolving labor disputes, assuring that no worker would face penalties for participating in the strike.

In addition to lifting the pay freeze, officials pledged to continue discussions on pending salary adjustments and other welfare-related issues for health workers. However, union leaders warned that if agreed improvements are not implemented by April, a fresh nationwide strike could be considered.