The federal government has directed that the “no work, no pay” policy be enforced against members of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) currently on strike across federal government hospitals.
The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Health to all chief medical directors and medical directors of federal tertiary health institutions. It applies specifically to JOHESU members participating in the ongoing industrial action.
In a circular dated January 8, 2026, the ministry said the policy would take effect from January 2026. The document was signed by Abisola Adegoke, director of hospital services, on behalf of the coordinating minister of health, Ali Pate.
The ministry said the decision was taken to ensure the continued delivery of essential healthcare services despite the strike. It emphasised that public hospitals must not be allowed to shut down critical operations.
According to the circular, hospital managements are required to ensure that key units such as accident and emergency, labour wards, and intensive care units remain functional throughout the period of the industrial action.
The ministry instructed chief medical directors and medical directors to use all legal means available to them to maintain services. This includes the engagement of locum staff where necessary.
The circular stated that the “no work, no pay” rule is in line with existing labour regulations and government policy. It noted that the principle applies to any worker who withdraws their services during an industrial dispute.
The ministry said compliance with the directive would be closely monitored. Hospital administrators were reminded of their responsibility to ensure adherence to government instructions.
It also warned that failure to implement the policy could attract sanctions against hospital managements. The circular did not specify the nature of such sanctions.
JOHESU represents a coalition of health sector workers, including nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, and other allied health professionals. The union commenced its strike over unresolved demands related to welfare, salary structures, and conditions of service.
The strike has affected service delivery in several federal hospitals, with patients reporting delays and reduced access to care in some facilities. Emergency services in certain hospitals have also been stretched due to reduced manpower.
The federal government has repeatedly expressed concern over the impact of strikes in the health sector on patients. Officials have maintained that while workers have the right to protest, essential services must be protected.
In the circular, the ministry reiterated the importance of safeguarding lives and preventing avoidable deaths during the strike. It described healthcare as a critical sector that requires continuity at all times.
The government’s position reflects a broader policy stance aimed at discouraging prolonged industrial actions in essential services. The “no work, no pay” rule has previously been applied during strikes by other public sector unions.
Labour unions have often criticised the policy, arguing that it undermines workers’ rights and weakens collective bargaining. JOHESU has in the past described the policy as punitive.
As of the time of the circular, no timeline was provided for resolving the dispute with JOHESU. Negotiations between the union and the government have continued intermittently.
The ministry urged hospital managements to balance enforcement of the directive with efforts to maintain peace and order within their institutions. It advised administrators to document attendance and service delivery accurately.
The directive signals a firm stance by the federal government as the strike enters another phase. Patients and health workers alike are awaiting the outcome of ongoing discussions between the parties involved.
