Posted on: Sun 02-11-2025

In a dramatic move aimed at calming tensions in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, the federal government has announced the release of 11.99 billion within 72 hours to settle part of the salary and allowance arrears owed to medical professionals nationwide.

This announcement comes on the heels of a nationwide indefinite strike declared by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), who have been protesting unpaid entitlements and poor working conditions.

Alaba Balogun, Head of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health, confirmed that the Ministry—working with the Ministry of Finance—has already transferred 21.3 billion to the IPPIS account for payment to health workers, including NARD members. An earlier 10 billion was released in August to begin payment of seven months’ arrears under the revised CONMESS and CONHESS salary structures.

Balogun emphasized that these payments are being enjoyed by NARD members and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare and stability of Nigeria’s health workforce.

In addition to financial relief, the federal government has granted special waivers to enable large-scale recruitment across federal tertiary institutions. Over 20,000 health workers have already been employed in 58 federal health institutions, with another 15,000 positions approved for recruitment in 2025.

Further support includes the disbursement of 10.6 billion for the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), ensuring resident doctors nationwide receive full payment.

To resolve ongoing disputes, the Ministry of Health has appointed Professor Dafe Otobo, an expert in industrial relations, to mediate discussions between the government and health unions. Otobo has held individual and joint meetings with union representatives to facilitate collective bargaining and reach comprehensive agreements.

Talks are reportedly progressing on key issues raised by the unions, including specialist allowances, salary relativity, consultant cadre appointments, and other welfare-related concerns.

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