Health workers across Nigeria have taken to the streets in protest against a proposed bill seeking to bring all medical and allied health professionals under the regulatory control of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Gatekeepers News reports that the demonstration is part of growing resistance to the Health Sector Executive Bills currently before the National Assembly, which many stakeholders say could significantly alter the structure of healthcare regulation in the country.
The protest, coordinated by major unions including the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, drew participants to Abuja, where they converged to express their concerns over the legislation.
Health workers argue that the bill could centralise regulatory authority under the MDCN, potentially sidelining other professional bodies and weakening their independence. They fear the move may disrupt existing professional roles, create imbalance in the system, and negatively affect working conditions.
“Our members must educate the general public on how the Health Sector Executive Bills 2026 affect their respective professions in particular and the health sector in general,” a union representative said.
Stakeholders have also raised concerns about provisions in the bill that appear to grant the MDCN overriding powers over other healthcare regulatory bodies. Critics warn that such provisions could lead to jurisdictional conflicts and undermine established professional frameworks.
The protest highlights longstanding tensions within Nigeria’s health sector, where disputes over welfare, professional recognition, and governance have frequently led to industrial actions. Observers note that the latest development comes at a time when the sector is already strained by workforce shortages, brain drain, and inadequate infrastructure.
Despite calls for reform, health workers are urging lawmakers to halt or review the bill to allow broader consultations and ensure that any changes reflect the interests of all healthcare professionals.
