Nigerian doctors on duty

The Federal Government has met with leaders of health sector unions and associations as part of reconciliation efforts aimed at sustaining industrial peace in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Alaba Balogun.

Mr Pate, who led the government delegation, said President Bola Tinubu’s administration holds health workers in high regard and is committed to improving their welfare.

“The administration appreciates all Nigerian health workers, whom it regards as key to realising the Renewed Hope Agenda for the health sector. We have made significant investments in infrastructure, equipment, services, and welfare — and will do even more,” Pate said.

He stressed that timely implementation of agreements reached with unions is crucial to maintaining healthcare services, noting that Nigerian hospitals are now attracting patients from West Africa, Europe, and the U.S. due to recent reforms.

The minister also announced the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, to ensure effective execution of agreements. The committee includes representatives from:

• Ministry of Health and Social Welfare
• Ministry of Labour and Employment
• Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation
• National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission
• Ministry of Finance
• Office of the Accountant General of the Federation
• Budget Office

Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Tanko Sununu, commended the unions and the health ministers, urging consistent and uniform implementation of agreements and calling for continuous dialogue to ensure lasting industrial peace.