Health sector unions under the Joint Health Sector Unions and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (JOHESU) have announced plans to stage a national protest in Abuja over the proposed Health Sector Executive Bills 2026 currently before the National Assembly.

The protest, scheduled for Thursday, is expected to attract healthcare professionals from across the country.

According to the unions, participants are expected to converge at the Unity Fountain in Maitama before proceeding to the National Assembly Complex.

In a circular obtained on Thursday morning, JOHESU directed its affiliate unions and professional associations to mobilise members in large numbers for the demonstration.

Speaking on the planned protest, JOHESU National Secretary, Martin Egbanubi, said the demonstration was aimed at drawing public attention to the implications of the proposed legislation.

“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,” Egbanubi said.

The union leader described the protest as a crucial moment for healthcare professionals and urged members to participate actively.

“Your participation in this historic existential struggle is highly solicited and essential,” he added.

JOHESU noted that the bills, which have already passed first reading in the Senate, have generated anxiety among health workers.

According to the union, many professionals fear that the legislation could alter existing structures, redefine professional roles and affect welfare conditions in the health sector.

JOHESU, which includes the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria and the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, has been a major voice in labour issues within Nigeria’s health sector.

Over the years, the coalition has frequently engaged the Federal Government over matters such as salary structures, hazard allowances and concerns about dominance by certain professional groups in health policy decisions.

The planned protest comes amid longstanding tensions in Nigeria’s health system, which have often resulted in strikes and service disruptions affecting millions of citizens.

The system is already under pressure due to workforce shortages, brain drain and inadequate infrastructure, as many healthcare professionals continue to migrate abroad in search of better working conditions.