Workers at various government-owned hospitals in Kaduna State began a five-day warning strike on Monday due to the non-implementation of the 2009 Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and hazard allowance, leading to a halt in hospital activities.
The industrial action was initiated by the Nigerian Association of Nurses and Midwives(NANNM), the Nigerian Association of Laboratory Scientists, and the Association of Hospital Administrative Pharmacists, Kaduna State Chapter.
Strict adherence to the strike was observed at the Sabo General Hospital in Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area, as well as at the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital and the Gwamna Awan General Hospital, Kaduna.
On Monday, several patients noted the absence of nurses, which was different from the previous week when nurses were proactive in their duties.
A nurse from one of the government hospitals, who arrived later, informed the patients that she was providing them with their final medication due to the ongoing strike.
The Nigerian Association of Nurses and Midwives, Kaduna State Chapter, is demanding their 2009 CONHESS and 2022 hazard allowance from the government.
Despite promises and a committee review, nurses are still waiting for their balance of the 2009 CONHESS.
The government promised to pay 50% of the hazard allowance in 2023 and the remaining 50% in 2024, but this promise has not been fulfilled.
The nurses hope Governor Uba Sani will address their demands and are prepared to go on strike if they are not met.