From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, has dismissed reports alleging that Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with stakeholders in the health sector have been suspended until after 2027.
In a statement issued in Abuja at the weekend, the Head of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Annah Daniel, described the claims as misleading, unfounded and inconsistent with the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to workers’ welfare and industrial harmony in the health sector.
According to the statement, the government’s attention was drawn to reports and insinuations suggesting that CBAs with health sector stakeholders had been put on hold until after the 2027 general elections.
“The government wishes to categorically state that such claims are misleading, unfounded, and do not reflect the position or commitment of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration toward workers’ welfare and industrial harmony within the health sector,” the statement said.
It added that the government remains committed to constructive engagement, continuous dialogue and responsible negotiations with all health sector unions and professional bodies in line with labour laws and international best practices.
The statement stressed that collective bargaining remains a vital instrument for promoting industrial peace, improving working conditions and ensuring effective healthcare service delivery to Nigerians.
While acknowledging the prevailing economic challenges and the need for prudent management of national resources, the government maintained that this does not amount to abandoning or suspending agreements with health sector stakeholders.
It noted that discussions and consultations with relevant unions are ongoing and would continue in good faith toward mutually beneficial outcomes.
The government also emphasized that the administration recognizes the invaluable contributions of healthcare professionals to national development and public health service delivery.
It assured that policies and interventions aimed at strengthening the health sector and improving the welfare of health workers would continue to receive priority attention.
The statement urged members of the public and stakeholders to disregard misinformation capable of creating unnecessary tension within the sector, reaffirming government’s commitment to dialogue and sustaining industrial harmony in the overall interest of the nation.
