Zamfara State Government Moves To Stop Health Workers Strike

The Zamfara State government has called on health workers in the state to suspend their planned strike and return to negotiations, stressing that protecting citizens remains its top duty.

The appeal follows the announcement by the Medical and Health Workers Union (MHWUN) in Zamfara that it would embark on strike action over what it described as unfair treatment in salary adjustments and welfare.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Nafisa Mohammed Maradun, acknowledged the concerns of the union but explained that government had already taken steps to improve pay and working conditions in phases. She said the recent salary increase for some medical staff was part of a broader plan that would eventually cover all categories of health workers.

The government maintained that the strike threat comes at a sensitive time, especially as the state is battling a cholera outbreak that has spread across several communities. Authorities fear that the withdrawal of health workers could worsen the situation and place lives at greater risk.

Officials outlined some of the measures already put in place to tackle both welfare issues and the ongoing outbreak. These include the distribution of drugs and medical supplies to local government areas, provision of free treatment at the Infectious Disease Hospital, deployment of doctors, and interventions in water, sanitation and hygiene.

The Ministry of Health assured that its doors remain open for dialogue with the union and other stakeholders. It urged the health workers to work with the government in finding a common ground, stressing that the priority should be saving lives and maintaining stability in the healthcare system.

The outcome of the talks will determine whether the strike goes ahead or is suspended in the interest of the public.