By Blessing Eloghene
Allied health workers in Delta State have suspended their industrial action following a commitment by the state government to pay uniform allowances to members of the striking unions.
The decision was reached after an intervention by the state Commissioner for Health, Joseph Onojaemo, and a meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) and the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions (SSATHURIAI).
The unions had embarked on the strike over outstanding allowances and other demands.
In a statement signed by the NUAHP State Secretary, Comrade Dr Monday Abednego Oyovwevotu, the union said its expanded State Executive Council and State Administrative Council reviewed the situation and resolved to suspend the action.
According to the union, the strike was suspended effective Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 8 a.m., directing members to return to their respective workplaces.
The development followed a meeting held on September 21 involving the Commissioner for Health, the State Trade Union Congress (TUC), and representatives of NUAHP and SSATHURIAI.
During the meeting, the Commissioner appealed to the unions to suspend the strike and give him time to seek Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s approval on their outstanding demands.
However, the NUAHP Chairman, Comrade Uruwayino Charles, reportedly said the union needed a concrete commitment before asking its members to return tomorrow work.
Following the discussion, the Commissioner agreed to the payment of uniform allowances of N180,000 for workers on CONHESS 9 and above and N90,000 for those on CONHESS 8 and below.
The payment is expected to be made by the first week of October 2026, while the unions await the Governor’s decision on their other outstanding demands.
The unions subsequently resolved to suspend the industrial action and directed members to resume work on Thursday. The suspension is expected to restore services by the affected allied health professionals across health facilities in Delta State.
