Delta Pharmacists, Nurses Threaten Strike Over Salary Exclusion

Unconfirmed reports suggest that pharmacists and nurses in Delta State are set to embark on a warning strike following their alleged exclusion from recent salary increments approved by the state government for medical doctors.

The Delta State Government had announced a ₦200,000 monthly salary increase for doctors and a ₦100,000 tax-free allowance for house officers as part of efforts to address brain drain in the health sector. The development, however, reportedly left out pharmacists, nurses, and laboratory scientists, triggering concerns among other health workers.

A notice issued by the State Executive Council of the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) directed members to comply with a proposed three-day warning strike, urging full participation while warning against any action that could undermine the directive. The union also called for unity among affected professionals as discussions continue.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, had explained that the “MORE Special Allowance” was specifically targeted at medical doctors to address manpower shortages, a decision that has continued to generate tension within the wider health workforce in the state.