NMA President Engages in High-Level Meeting on Healthcare Workers’ Welfare with Coordinating Minister of Health and Key Stakeholders
As part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of Nigerian doctors, the President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Bala Mohammed Audu, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, participated in a crucial meeting convened by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the leadership of the NMA, the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU). Discussions centered on progress made regarding the welfare of doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria.
Key Outcomes from the Meeting
Payment of CONMESS Adjustment Arrears
The Coordinating Minister confirmed that the arrears resulting from the adjustment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) are set for imminent payment. The necessary funds have been secured, and disbursement to beneficiaries will commence soon.
Correction of Consequential Adjustments for CONMESS and CONHESS
The Minister announced that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has approved the correction of consequential adjustments for both CONMESS and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), arising from the implementation of the new minimum wage. The process to effect this correction is at an advanced stage, providing much-needed relief to doctors and other healthcare workers.
Increase in Retirement Age
In a significant policy shift, the President has approved an increase in the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare workers from 60 to 65 years. The Minister of Health has been directed to formally present this approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for finalization.
Approval of New Tariffs for Healthcare Service Providers
Following an extensive review initiated by the NMA, approval has been granted for the implementation of new tariffs for healthcare service providers. This will particularly benefit members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), ensuring better financial remuneration and sustainability for healthcare services nationwide.
The Coordinating Minister expressed appreciation for the patience and collaboration of all stakeholders and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of all healthcare workers. This, he emphasized, is crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s health sector.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all parties to work together in advocating for the welfare of healthcare workers and ensuring the full implementation of these key reforms.
Dr Mannir Bature
National Publicity Secretary
- Published in NMA News
NMA President Prof. Bala Audu Intensifies Advocacy for Nigerian Doctors’ Welfare, Secures Commitment for Prompt Payment of CONMESS Arrears
The President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Prof. Bala Audu, continues to vigorously champion the welfare of medical practitioners across Nigeria. In a series of strategic engagements, Prof. Audu met with the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa and the Director General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr Kelechi Ohiri on Friday, 24th January 2025, to address pressing issues impacting the healthcare sector and the well-being of medical professionals.
During his discussion with the Minister of Education, Prof. Audu highlighted the challenges faced by medical academics, particularly the discrimination against medical professors in Nigerian universities. He advocated for equitable recognition and treatment of these professionals who contribute significantly to both academia and healthcare.
In his meeting with the NHIA Director General, Dr Audu secured a mutual agreement to establish a specialized healthcare package for medical doctors and other healthcare workers. This initiative includes the implementation of a new tariff for healthcare providers, aiming to offer essential health benefits and address the specific needs of those dedicated to the nation’s health system.
These efforts underscore Prof. Audu’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the conditions and welfare of healthcare professionals in Nigeria. His proactive engagement with key stakeholders represents a significant step toward ensuring that the rights and needs of Nigerian doctors are met, both in healthcare delivery and within academic and professional settings.
The NMA President reaffirmed the association’s dedication to advocating for the advancement of the medical profession. He called for continued collaboration between government agencies and medical associations to create a more supportive environment for healthcare workers nationwide. Prof. Audu expressed gratitude for the patience exhibited by Nigerian doctors concerning the delay in the payment of CONMESS adjustment arrears and assured them that the payment would be effected in no time.
- Published in NMA News, Uncategorized
“Let The Work Begin”! – Dr Bala Audu, New NMA President
I trust each delegate has reunited with loved ones, enriched by our collective experience. As we reflect on the profound takeaways from our recently concluded Annual Delegates Meeting in Calabar, I commend the NMA Cross River Chapter for their exceptional hosting.
My heartfelt gratitude goes to my fellow Nigerian Doctors whose unwavering support has led to my election as President. Your commitment to our association is commendable, and I earnestly wish to convey my gratitude beyond mere words.
The resounding voice of Nigerian Doctors has resonated clearly with me. Your votes signal a mandate to enhance the social welfare of our profession, bolster healthcare accessibility nationwide, and elevate the standard of healthcare services to global acclaim. I pledge unwavering dedication to fulfilling these aspirations, vowing not to falter in this noble pursuit.
To other candidates in the election, while the outcome may not have favored all, I implore you to maintain your ardor for our association. Your continued dedication is invaluable as we strive to elevate the NMA to unprecedented heights. As reiterated in my acceptance speech, “this victory is for all Nigerian Doctors.” Let us now embark, united in purpose, on the journey ahead. In the service of all Nigerian Doctors, let the work begin! Yes, we shall!!
Sincerely,
Dr Bala Mohammed Audu
32nd President, Nigerian Medical Association
Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare
- Published in NMA News