Health workers under the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, on Thursday, staged a peaceful protest at Unity Fountain in Abuja, demanding a review of a proposed health sector regulatory bill currently before the National Assembly, which they say threatens professional autonomy across the sector.
The demonstrators, representing a broad spectrum of allied health professionals, argued that the bill seeks to place all medical and allied health professions under the regulatory authority of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, a move they warned could erode the independence of established regulatory bodies for nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists and other practitioners.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Protect Professional Autonomy” and “Equity in Healthcare Regulation,” the protesters marched through parts of the Federal Capital Territory, chanting solidarity songs and calling on lawmakers to adopt a more inclusive and balanced framework.
The Union leaders stressed that their action is not to oppose regulation but to ensure that any reform reflects fairness, collaboration and respect for the distinct roles of all healthcare professionals.
“Each health profession already has established regulatory frameworks that safeguard standards and professional practice. The bill, as drafted, risks subordinating other health professionals and undermining the structure that has sustained service delivery over the years”, a union leader said.
The protesters warned that centralising regulatory control could create imbalances within the health system, potentially affecting morale and efficiency, and ultimately impacting the quality of care delivered to Nigerians.
They further disclosed plans to proceed to the National Assembly complex to formally submit a petition detailing their objections, along with proposed amendments to strengthen the bill without compromising the integrity of existing professional institutions.
The demonstration highlights long-standing concerns within Nigeria’s health sector over issues of professional equity, regulatory oversight and career recognition—challenges that have, in the past, contributed to industrial disputes affecting healthcare delivery nationwide.
Union leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained dialogue with lawmakers, expressing optimism that constructive engagement will lead to a more inclusive legislative outcome that promotes harmony, safeguards professional standards and enhances healthcare delivery for millions of Nigerians.