Katsina health professionals declare 7-day warning strike

The Assembly of Healthcare Professionals in Katsina State has announced a seven-day warning strike due to the state government's failure to fully address their demands for improved allowances and salary adjustments. According to Ibrahim Balange, the assembly's chairman, the strike is set to begin at midnight on October 14. The unions involved in the assembly include Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, and National Union of Allied Health Professionals.

The assembly had previously issued a seven-day strike notice on October 7, but this notice lapsed without the desired resolution of their concerns. Balange stated that the struggle for improved allowances began in 2024 when the state government announced its intention to review healthcare professionals' benefits, similar to those in the federal government sector.

However, during the implementation of the minimum wage, the workers felt that their salary tables differed from what they were actually receiving. A committee was later established to investigate the situation and make recommendations in March 2025, but the government has yet to implement them. Balange revealed that the workers were offered 10% of the difference between their salaries and those of federal counterparts by the Office of Public Service Reform, but the assembly rejected this offer.

Following further discussions, the strike's initiation was delayed from September 7 to October 14. Balange expressed dissatisfaction with the governor's approval of a 15% increment, which only amounted to an additional five percentage points above the previous offer. The assembly is demanding the full implementation of the Federal Government's salary adjustment table and structure, but is willing to accept a 75% compromise.

Some members haven't even agreed to a 75% implementation. Balange warned that the pay disparity could jeopardize Katsina's healthcare system, which was previously considered one of the states with attractive employment conditions for healthcare professionals. The assembly remains open to negotiations with the government but insists on fair compensation to retain healthcare professionals in the state.

The chairman stated that the assembly would reconvene after the seven-day warning strike to assess the outcome and decide on the next steps. He cautioned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to an ultimatum for an indefinite strike, emphasizing that the industrial action is being taken in accordance with labor laws. Balange apologized for the potential inconvenience the strike may cause to the government and the public, reaffirming the assembly's commitment to protecting the welfare and professional interests of its members.