MHWUN—and by extension JOHESU—paid respect to former President Buhari, noting his engagements and responsiveness to health sector demands. They described him as a leader who made concerted efforts to address workers’ welfare and promote fair workplace relations.
The union recalled how Buhari, despite earlier tensions with unions during his military regime, later in his civilian tenure provided platforms for dialogue. Specifically, JOHESU raised grievances on welfare, salary structures, hazard allowances, and other allowances—and Buhari granted them audiences and pardoned withheld salaries, including allowing payment of previously seized remuneration.
While Buhari’s early military rule saw clashes with labour leading to mass retrenchment, his administration as civilian president (2015–2023) is credited with avoiding dismissals—even amid economic hardship—and facilitating salary and allowances payments for health workers and pensioners.
MHWUN leadership, including President Josiah Biobelemoye, emphasized that Buhari provided opportunities to address industrial disharmony in the health sector, though they lamented that faith was placed in timely action on long-standing demands.
Tribute Sentiment: Buhari was hailed as “labour-friendly” for his openness to dialogue, ability to reconcile with health workers, and willingness to act on some demands—even after initial adversarial relations in his earlier rule.
Welfare Engagement: Under his administration, JOHESU and its affiliate unions gained audience, had salary arrears addressed, and enjoyed broader inclusion in policy discussions relative to previous regimes.
Legacy Reflection: Despite systemic union tension during his military years, as civilian president he maintained engagement with organized labour and health sector professionals—earning gratitude in the union’s farewell message.
