Breaking: Nigeria Retracts Controversial Nurse Salary Circular, Averting Potential Strikes
In a move to appease disgruntled healthcare workers and prevent widespread strikes, the Nigerian federal government has officially retracted a contentious circular concerning nurses’ remuneration. The announcement was made by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday.
The withdrawn circular, issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), had led to unrest among nursing professionals due to perceived negative impacts on their salary structures and entitlements. Minister Pate acknowledged the dissent, stating, “We acknowledge the discontent caused by the recent circular, and in our commitment to a listening government, we have withdrawn it.”
zutory,” or “that sparked nationwide concern,” and other relevant keywords naturally. Be mindful of the word count limit.
The directive, which had proposed changes to the existing wage framework, was met with vehement opposition from the Nigeria Union of Nurses and affiliated healthcare associations. These groups had threatened industrial action unless the circular was revoked.
Following the backlash, the federal government moved swiftly to engage in formal discussions with relevant unions, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and nurses’ representatives. Minister Pate confirmed these efforts, stating, “We are now in transparent negotiations to increment allowances and resolve welfare concerns raised by our health workers.”
To facilitate productive dialogue, the government has extended the deadline for reaching a consensus to allow for thorough discussions. The Ministry of Finance is also processing plans to settle pending arrears owed to affected health personnel.
Addressing concerns over the centralisation of nurse postings and recruitment, Minister Pate said, “We have agreed to manage postings in a fair and orderly manner.”
This U-turn by the federal government comes as a relief to the nation’s healthcare sector, which had been bracing for potential disruptions following the salary row. The proactive response by the government signals a commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment with the country’s healthcare professionals.
In a statement, the Nigeria Union of Nurses expressed gratitude for the government’s responsiveness and pledged to work constructively towards a resolution. The union also commended the federal government for its willingness to engage in transparent negotiations and address the welfare concerns of healthcare workers.
As negotiations continue, stakeholders in Nigeria’s healthcare sector remain optimistic about the prospect of a resolution that will ensure fair remuneration and improved working conditions for nurses and other healthcare professionals.
