Posted on: Sat 16-08-2025

Health Workers Get a Seat at the Table — FG Launches Landmark Negotiation Committee”

Abuja, Nigeria | 11 August 2025 In a bold move to reshape Nigeria’s healthcare workforce landscape, the Federal Government has officially inaugurated the Health Sector Collective Bargaining Committee, marking the start of structured negotiations with major health unions across the country.

Led by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the inauguration signals a commitment to building a fair and sustainable framework for health professionals.

“Health workers are central to our mission of delivering quality healthcare,” Prof. Pate stated. “It is our duty to ensure that their needs are addressed with sincerity, transparency, and mutual respect.”

The high-level ceremony, held in Abuja on Friday, August 15, brought together key government figures including:

• Hon. Minister of Labour & Employment, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi
• Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako
• Senior officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Ministry of Finance, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and the Budget Office of the Federation

Negotiations will engage unions such as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM). Key focus areas include remuneration, working conditions, professional development, and overall welfare.

“Collective bargaining is a proven pathway to industrial peace and sectoral stability,” said Hon. Dingyadi.
“We intend to find common ground that ensures the welfare of our health workers while protecting the public’s access to uninterrupted, quality healthcare.”

Dr. Salako added that the initiative is part of a broader reform agenda:

“By listening to the voices of our health professionals, we are not just negotiating terms — we are shaping the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.”

The Federal Government urges all stakeholders to approach the negotiations with good faith, compromise, and a shared commitment to advancing the health and well-being of Nigerians.

Alaba Balogun 
Head, Information and Public Relations
Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare

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