The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected a circular issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare directing the enforcement of a “No Work, No Pay” policy against members of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).
The circular, which also ordered the stoppage of salaries through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) from January 2026, was issued in response to the ongoing JOHESU strike that commenced on November 15, 2025.
Signed by the Director of Hospital Services in the ministry, Dr Abisola Adegoke, the directive instructed health institutions to implement the policy as part of measures to address the industrial action.
Reacting in a joint statement, TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, Comrade Nuhu Toro, described the directive as unacceptable, provocative, and a clear violation of established industrial relations principles.
The congress said the ministry’s action undermines ongoing negotiations between the Federal Government and health sector unions, accusing it of adopting intimidation tactics rather than engaging in constructive dialogue to resolve the dispute.
Written by Dolapo Sonuga