Health workers under the aegis of the Joint Health Sector Unions and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations are currently protesting at the Unity Fountain in Abuja against the proposed Health Sector Regulatory Bill before the National Assembly.
The health workers are against the bill, stating that if allowed to pass, it would subject every medical profession to the regulation of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria. They declared that health professions have their own regulatory bodies and that the new bill is seeking to make other health professionals second class to medical doctors.
Participants converged today Thursday March 26th at Unity Fountain in Maitama before marching to the National Assembly Complex. JOHESU National Secretary Martin Egbanubi described the protest as necessary to raise public awareness. “This is a critical moment for healthcare professionals and the sector,” he said, warning that the bills could alter professional roles, welfare structures and governance within the health system.
In an official communication signed by Egbanubi, JOHESU directed its affiliate unions and professional associations to mobilise members en masse, warning that the proposed legislation could have far reaching implications for healthcare professionals and the sector at large. “Our members must educate the general public on how the Health Sector Executive Bills 2026 affect their respective professions in particular and the health sector in general,” he said, describing the action as a historic existential struggle and urging maximum participation. “Your participation in this historic existential struggle is highly solicited and essential,” he added.
The unions warn the bills which have already passed first reading in the Senate could alter professional roles, existing structures and welfare conditions within the health system.
The National Assembly had not responded to the protest at the time of this report.
