Health Workers Storm Abuja, Reject Controversial Regulatory Bill

Thousands of health professionals have gathered at Unity Fountain in Abuja to protest the proposed Health Sector Regulatory Bill currently before the National Assembly.

Organized by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, the demonstration reflects widespread opposition to the bill, which critics say would place all medical and allied health professions under the authority of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

Protest leaders argue that existing regulatory bodies already govern various health professions, and the new legislation would unfairly elevate medical doctors above other health workers. They warned that passing the bill could undermine professional autonomy and create a two-tier system in the Nigerian healthcare sector.

The demonstrators plan to march to the National Assembly to present their grievances directly to lawmakers, urging a review of the bill to protect the interests of all health professionals.

Analysts say the protest highlights growing tensions between Nigeria’s medical workforce and the government over regulatory oversight and professional equity.