The Nasarawa State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has rejected the ₦10,000 wage award offered by the state government as a palliative measure to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal. In a formal letter to Governor Abdullahi Sule, the association called for the implementation of the reviewed hazard allowance and the settlement of 23 months’ accrued arrears.
In the letter, signed by Drs. Attah Peter and Ashiegbu Kelechi, Chairman and Secretary of the association, respectively, it was explained that other states and the Federal Government have already implemented the hazard allowance and other welfare enhancements for healthcare workers. This has served as a motivating factor for their members, encouraging them to rededicate themselves and enhance healthcare service delivery in their respective states. The NMA is now calling for the same measures to be implemented in Nasarawa State.
The NMA also highlighted the tragic loss of three medical doctors and other healthcare workers in Nasarawa State to Lassa fever and other health-related hazards over the past two years. This further emphasizes the need for improved conditions and compensation to enhance the quality of healthcare services in the state.
“The Medical Doctors on the payroll of the State Government prefer and want the hazard allowance implementation rather than the palliatives the Organized Labour and the State Government agreed,” the letter stated. The association firmly believes that the implementation of the hazard allowance will provide the necessary motivation for their members to rededicate themselves to their duties and improve healthcare service delivery in Nasarawa State.
The NMA expressed surprise and shock at the payment of the wage reward, as they had recently had a meeting with the Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, who confirmed that the State Government had granted approval for the hazard allowance to be paid to medical doctors on its payroll. Therefore, the NMA stands firm in their demand for improved working conditions and compensation, as they believe it is crucial for the provision of high-quality healthcare services in Nasarawa State.
