KATSINA, NIGERIA — Health workers across Katsina State are set to commence a seven-day warning strike on September 8, 2026, following the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued to the state government over unresolved demands concerning their welfare and working conditions.
The industrial action, announced by the leadership of the health workers’ union in the state, is expected to affect services across primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities, potentially disrupting healthcare delivery to thousands of residents. The union has cited the government’s failure to address key issues, including the non-implementation of salary harmonisation, outstanding promotions, and the provision of essential working tools and protective equipment.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the union leadership expressed disappointment with the state government’s response to their demands, which they described as “unacceptable and insensitive to the plight of health workers.” The union also raised concerns over the lack of clarity on the payment of COVID-19 hazard allowances, which have remained a contentious issue in negotiations.
The health workers have called on Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to intervene personally to prevent the strike, which they warned could escalate if their demands are not met. “We are left with no choice but to withdraw our services. The government has failed to show any meaningful commitment to addressing the challenges we face in our daily duties,” a union official said.
The Katsina State Government, through the Ministry of Health, has expressed surprise at the union’s decision and called for continued dialogue to resolve the impasse. The government said it had made progress on some of the demands raised, including the release of funds for promotion arrears, and urged the workers to consider the implications of a strike on the health of the public.
The strike notice comes at a critical time when the state is still recovering from the impact of disease outbreaks and other health emergencies. Residents have expressed concern over the potential disruption to healthcare services, with many calling on both parties to reach a compromise and avert the industrial action.
As the September 8 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the state government to see whether it can respond to the workers’ demands and avert a strike that could have significant consequences for healthcare delivery in the state. The union has made it clear that the strike will proceed unless the government demonstrates a clear commitment to addressing their grievances.
