By Blessing Bature
The Federal Government has urged the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), led by Comrade Haruna Mamman, to reconsider their strike action and “japa syndrome” (a colloquial term referring to the mass exodus of Nigerian professionals, including healthcare workers, seeking better opportunities abroad).
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako disclosed this at the familiarization visit to the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), on Tuesday in Abuja.
Dr Iziaq informed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has reiterated its dedication to transforming Nigeria’s health sector through substantial investments and increased allocations.
He eexpressed commitment to resolving issues surrounding the payment of 7 months’ arrears of CONMESS and CONHESS, assuring that the matter is being addressed.
According to him, the government has increased funding for the health sector, demonstrating its prioritization of healthcare and has introduced waivers to facilitate continuous recruitment, ensuring that the health sector has the necessary personnel to deliver quality services.
The Minister of State hinted that since he assumed Office, he has been busy familiarizing himself with the inner workings of the ministry. Since taking office, they’ve met with staff at all levels, visited various agencies and hospitals, and recognized the importance of human resources in healthcare.
The Minister acknowledges that healthcare workers, including nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and administrative staff, are the backbone of the healthcare system. They plan to visit all associations and unions within the health sector to build relationships and ensure their welfare is prioritized.
“This proactive approach is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by healthcare workers, who are essential in delivering quality healthcare services. By engaging with them directly, the Minister can gain valuable insights into the issues they face and work towards finding solutions”.
The Minister emphasized the significance of building relationships with unions, citing their personal experience working with unions in the past. They acknowledged that when welfare issues arise, it’s essential to listen to both sides – the employer/government and the staff/unions.
The Minister said he recognized that governments and employers face limitations, and it’s unrealistic to expect 100% satisfaction. However, through open communication, interaction, and understanding, parties can find common ground.
The Minister encouraged union leaders to maintain open dialogue with their members, ensuring they understand the challenges faced by governments and employers. This collaborative approach can help prevent misunderstandings and promote a more harmonious working relationship.
The Minister assured the audience that the Ministry holds the association and profession in high esteem, acknowledging the crucial role they play in the healthcare sector.
The Minister announced an open-door policy, inviting union representatives to engage with the Ministry at any time to address concerns or issues. This commitment to transparency and collaboration aims to foster a positive working environment.
Speaking, President of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Comrade Haruna Mamman said “the purpose of the your visit as captured in your notification letter was very explicit and heartwarming – “A proactive measure to enhance productivity and to reduce threats to lockouts and strikes”.
“While your visit is principally aimed at forestalling threats of lockouts and strikes, it is necessary to correct an impression here. Nurses and Midwives are not known lovers of strikes and lockouts, considering the essentiality and nobility of their calling as Healthcare Professionals. Strike is the right of workers as stipulated in the Labour Law when governments or Employers have failed in their own side of contractual agreement with the workers”.
The Association heartily appreciated thg prompt effort of the Minister.
