LASG commends JOHESU for calling off strike action

The Lagos State Government on Sunday praised the state chapter of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) for suspending its three-month strike, describing the decision as a display of goodwill and a shared commitment to protecting public healthcare services.

The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, commended JOHESU for engaging in constructive dialogue to address outstanding issues.

The state JOHESU chairman, Adelaja Gbadamosi, confirmed the suspension of the strike in a telephone interview, noting that it followed interventions by the Lagos State House of Assembly and government officials during a meeting on Friday.

“We were assured by the Speaker of the House that all our demands will be addressed, and they requested that we suspend the strike. By Monday, we are expected to have a Memorandum of Understanding and an agreement. Based on this, we suspended the strike,” he said.

Ayantayo stated that the meeting concluded with an agreement to continue discussions while the union convenes its congress to formally communicate the resolutions and restore normal operations across public healthcare facilities in Lagos State.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to meeting the union’s demands for improved welfare benefits in line with regulations and agreed timelines, emphasizing its dedication to equitable treatment, better working conditions, and sustainable welfare programmes for health sector workers.

The commissioner highlighted the critical role of allied health professionals in strengthening healthcare delivery and assured that the government would maintain open and transparent engagement with stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of all agreements reached.

Ayantayo also acknowledged the timely and constructive role of the Lagos State House of Assembly in facilitating dialogue and fostering understanding, which contributed significantly to resolving the impasse.

The state government extended its appreciation to residents for their patience during the strike and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to quality healthcare services.

The strike, which disrupted health sector operations, was initiated by JOHESU to press legitimate demands aimed at enhancing the healthcare system and ensuring fairness for all professionals within it.