Healthcare services at federal hospitals across Nigeria were disrupted on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, after house officers commenced an indefinite nationwide strike over two months of unpaid salaries.
The industrial action has partially paralysed activities in federal health institutions as the doctors, who provide frontline medical care, withdrew their services.
In a letter signed by HOFN National President Dr. IheanyiEmeku, National Secretary Dr. Hemen Samson, and Public Relations Officer Dr. Samuel Uzoma, the forum addressed President Bola Tinubu directly. The letter stated the group’s position and the reasons behind the strike.
The House Officers’ Forum of Nigeria (HOFN) said the strike followed the expiration of a one-month ultimatum issued to the Federal Government.
“We write on behalf of House Officers across federal health institutions in Nigeria to express our deep concern and dissatisfaction regarding the persistent delay in the payment of our salaries,” the letter read in parts.
The forum said the prolonged delay had taken a severe toll on the welfare of affected doctors and had adversely affected healthcare delivery.
“This situation has subjected affected officers to severe financial hardship and has negatively impacted their welfare, morale, and ability to render optimal healthcare services,” HOFN stated.
The house officers also underscored their indispensable role within Nigeria’s healthcare system, describing the continued non-payment of salaries as unacceptable.
“House Officers remain critical members of the healthcare workforce and continue to provide essential medical services under demanding conditions.
“The continued non-payment of salaries is unacceptable and inconsistent with the obligations owed to healthcare workers who diligently serve the nation,” the forum said.
While reaffirming its preference for dialogue, HOFN warned that the disruption to healthcare services would continue until the outstanding salaries are paid.
“While we remain committed to dialogue and an amicable resolution of this matter, we respectfully urge the appropriate authorities to take immediate steps to ensure the prompt payment of all outstanding salaries and avert the disruption of healthcare services that may result from this action,” the notice stated.
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