By The Federal Government has dismissed claims that Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with unions and stakeholders in the health sector have been suspended until after the 2027 general elections.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, May 21, 2026, by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the government described the reports as misleading and unfounded, insisting that negotiations and consultations with health sector unions remain ongoing.
The ministry said the rumours do not reflect the position of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu or its commitment to workers’ welfare and industrial harmony in the country’s healthcare sector.
According to the statement signed by Annah Daniel, Head of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, collective bargaining remains an important tool for promoting industrial peace, improving working conditions, and ensuring effective healthcare delivery.
The ministry stated that despite prevailing economic challenges and the need for prudent management of national resources, the government has not abandoned or suspended agreements with health sector stakeholders.
“Government wishes to categorically state that such claims are misleading, unfounded, and do not reflect the position or commitment of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration toward workers’ welfare and industrial harmony within the health sector,” the statement read.
It added that discussions with relevant unions and professional bodies were continuing in good faith toward mutually beneficial outcomes.
The government also acknowledged the contributions of healthcare professionals to national development and public health service delivery, pledging continued support for policies aimed at strengthening the sector and improving workers’ welfare.
“Government remains committed to constructive engagement, continuous dialogue, and responsible negotiations with all health sector unions and professional bodies in line with established labour laws and international best practices,” the ministry stated.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Medical Association Negotiation and Outreach Committee (NMA NOC) also dismissed the claims, describing them as baseless.
In a separate disclaimer signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Olayinka Atilola, the committee said it had obtained a written clarification from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment debunking the rumour.
The committee, led by Dr. Afekhide Ernest Omoti, reaffirmed its commitment to the speedy actualisation of the collective bargaining agreement.
“The NOC is steadfast, unwavering and committed to speedy actualization of the CBA agreement and that has not changed in any way whatsoever,” the statement said.
Both the ministry and the NMA urged the public to disregard misinformation capable of creating unnecessary tension within the health sector.
