Health workers in Enugu State have called on the state government to fulfil its commitment to the full implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), amid concerns over remuneration and the welfare of healthcare professionals.
The demand was reported on Sunday, August 16, as health workers continued to push for improved working conditions and better compensation within the state’s healthcare system.
The issue centres on the implementation of the salary structure designed for health-sector professionals. Workers say fulfilling the agreed salary commitments is important not only for their welfare but also for maintaining an effective healthcare workforce.
Workers seek government action
The appeal comes at a time when Nigeria’s healthcare sector continues to face challenges involving staff welfare, shortages and the retention of skilled medical professionals.
Health workers have repeatedly called for better working conditions, arguing that improved remuneration and a supportive work environment are essential to keeping experienced professionals within the public healthcare system.
In Enugu, the demand for full CONHESS implementation has therefore become part of the wider conversation surrounding the welfare of medical personnel and the quality of healthcare services available to residents.
Concerns over healthcare workforce
The development also comes against the backdrop of growing concerns about the safety and welfare of healthcare workers across Nigeria.
A recent report highlighted increasing threats faced by health professionals, including attacks by criminals, bandits and relatives of patients. Healthcare workers have also reported concerns about travelling during late hours and working in facilities where security measures remain inadequate.
The Federal Government has previously directed measures to strengthen the protection of health workers following reports of assaults, intimidation and harassment in federal tertiary healthcare institutions.
These concerns have intensified calls for authorities at both federal and state levels to address issues affecting healthcare professionals.
Why CONHESS matters
The Consolidated Health Salary Structure is used to determine the remuneration of various categories of health professionals in the public sector.
Full implementation is expected to provide workers with salaries and allowances in line with approved structures and agreements.
For health workers, timely implementation is also viewed as an important step towards improving morale and reducing dissatisfaction within the healthcare workforce.
Potential impact on healthcare delivery
Health-sector stakeholders have consistently warned that poor working conditions can contribute to staff dissatisfaction, migration of skilled professionals and difficulties in maintaining adequate healthcare services.
For patients, the stability of the healthcare workforce is particularly important because shortages of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists and other professionals can place additional pressure on already busy hospitals.
Improved remuneration, alongside better working conditions and adequate staffing, could help strengthen the ability of public health facilities to provide consistent services.
Government response awaited
Health workers are now looking to the Enugu State Government to address their concerns and fulfil its commitments regarding CONHESS implementation.
The demand places renewed attention on the relationship between healthcare workers’ welfare and the wider quality of medical services available to residents.
As discussions continue, stakeholders will be watching for concrete steps from the state government to resolve the matter and strengthen the healthcare workforce.
The development comes at a time when healthcare professionals across Nigeria are increasingly calling for improved welfare, safer working environments and stronger institutional support.
