The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has threatened action against the Federal Government, warning that the enforcement of a “no work, no pay” policy for health workers could cripple the nation’s already fragile healthcare system.
The labour body has given the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare a seven-day ultimatum to withdraw a circular that mandates the suspension of salaries for members of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), effective this month.
TUC leaders argue that the directive prioritises fiscal control over the sustainability of services, staff retention, and industrial harmony. They warn that the policy comes at a time when Nigeria’s health sector is grappling with severe workforce shortages, chronic underfunding, and the increasing emigration of skilled professionals.
In a statement released yesterday, TUC President, Festus Osifo and General Secretary, Nuhu Toro described the circular, signed by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Abisola Adegoke, as authoritarian and economically shortsighted.
The union cautioned that implementing the policy could deepen social and economic pressures across the country.
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