JAPA: FG Orders Recruitment Of Medical Workers

JAPA: FG Orders Recruitment Of Medical Workers

The Federal Government has directed federal teaching hospitals to expedite the recruitment of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, to prevent a potential shortage of healthcare workers.

Additionally, the government reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing the welfare and safety of medical personnel and upgrading all government-run healthcare facilities nationwide.

This announcement was made by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, during a meeting with representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), led by Dr. Dele Abdullahi.

The meeting emphasized the urgent need to address pressing issues, including unresolved matters carried over from the previous administration.

The association highlighted several concerns, including inadequate compensation, delayed allowance payments, insufficient training funds, issues with the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), poor working conditions, and security threats, such as the recent incident at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Lokoja, Kogi State.

The minister expressed appreciation for the association’s willingness to collaborate and acknowledged their recognition of the government’s achievements in specific areas, highlighting the positive outcomes of their cooperation.

She said, “I had earlier heard about some of your concerns raised, and of which I deemed very serious. I share in your concerns and I am here to let you know that the government is poised to improve your standard, believing that when you are treated well, those who left our country will return, because Nigeria is the best place to stay.

” I believe that strike is the last option. That is why I wouldn‘t want to wait till strike notice is issued.

“I have heard what you have said. The good thing is that we have been very cooperative, and I will reach out to my colleagues whose offices fall within the duties of certain issues you have raised. So that we will know how to fast-track solutions.

“I am glad that you acknowledged some of the areas the Ministry of Health has addressed and how they have been ‘proactive.’ I am promising you that we have a government that is responsible and proactive. Our President is committed and pushes us to ensure that we do not leave the situation of things the way we met them.“