Forum Joins In Seeking Solution To JOHESU Strike
In an effort to synergise and find a lasting solution to the lingering face- off between the striking members of Joint Health Staff Union (JOHESU) and the Federal Government, the Interim officials of the Nigerian Health Institutions Chairmen Forum (NHICF) led by their Chairman, Dr. Sam S. Jaja, have paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, in Abuja.
NHICF is charged with the objective of promoting the health policies of government with a view of articulating them; shield the Health sector from undue politicization and identify with challenges encountered by health institutions and the entire sector at large.
Speaking while receiving the officials in his office, the Minister said series of meetings geared towards bringing the face off to an end have been held between the striking Union, Ministry of Labour and the Health Ministry resulting in the Court order asking the striking workers to return to work while negotiation continues.
While waiting for the Union to obey the order ,Adewole said efforts would be made to bring JOHESU and NMA together on a round table so that solutions could be sought for the nagging problems causing division and mistrust in the sector.
He however assured that the Federal Ministry of Health has a lot of sympathy for JOHESU in that most of the demands presented by the Union have been given favourable consideration.
The Minister appreciated members of the Forum for their visit and interest demonstrated on the matter adding that the face – off would soon come to an end.
Also speaking ,the Chairman ,Governing Board ,Federal Medical Centre , Keffi , Prince Sule – Iko Sami , observed that though Doctors were at their duty posts at various hospitals, patients were still scared to visit hospitals for healthcare . He therefore appealed to the Minister to bring his years of experience as a former Union President to bear in persuading the striking staff to return to work.
Prince Sami also promised to meet members of NMA and JOHESU in this regards and report back to the Minister.
The Permanent Secretary, Health, Mr. Clement Uwaifo, appreciated the officials for their passion for the sector and urged them to find ways of engaging the National Leadership of the Union with a view of appealing to their consciences.
