Healthcare professionals in Nigeria, operating under the umbrella of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) alongside the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, staged a protest in Abuja on Thursday over a controversial legislative proposal affecting the health sector.
The demonstration began at Unity Fountain, where participants voiced strong opposition to a regulatory bill currently under consideration by the National Assembly.
According to the protesters, the proposed law would place all healthcare professions under the authority of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), a move they argue undermines the autonomy of other professional bodies.
Union members insist that each healthcare discipline already has its own established regulatory framework. They warned that centralising oversight under the MDCN could relegate non-physician professionals to a subordinate status within the system.
Following the gathering, the protesters indicated plans to proceed to the National Assembly complex to formally present their concerns to lawmakers and advocate against the bill.
Earlier in the day, JOHESU had issued a directive urging its affiliate unions and partner associations to mobilise members in significant numbers for the protest.
The National Secretary of JOHESU, Martin Egbanubi, emphasised that the action was intended to raise awareness about the potential consequences of the proposed Health Sector Executive Bills 2026.
Also Read: Shettima Slams ADC Ahead of 2027 Elections as Tinubu Vows Stronger Action on Insecurity
He described the protest as a defining moment for stakeholders across the healthcare industry, calling on members to actively engage and inform the public about how the legislation could reshape the sector if passed.