Federal Government releases ₦11.9bn to health workers to settle arrears and restore stability in Nigeria’s health sector amid nationwide doctors’ strike

Federal Government has approved the release of ₦11.995 billion within 72 hours for the payment of outstanding arrears and accoutrement allowances owed to doctors and other health workers nationwide.

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The announcement, made through a statement from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and signed by Deputy Director of Information Alaba Balogun, underscores the government’s renewed commitment to restoring confidence and stability in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

According to the ministry, the Federal Government move forms part of ongoing efforts to address welfare grievances raised by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and other unions.

The payment also signals a strong attempt to end the strike involving over 11,000 resident doctors across 91 hospitals nationwide.

During a high-level meeting led by Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, government officials reaffirmed their resolve to ensure industrial harmony and better working conditions for all categories of health professionals.

The ministry revealed that, following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a total of ₦21.3 billion had already been transferred to the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) for payment of previously owed arrears, while the ₦11.995 billion now being processed will cover additional allowances, including accoutrement.

It added that ₦10.6 billion had been released as full payment for the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, exclusively for resident doctors.

To tackle the long-standing challenges of brain drain and workforce shortages, the Federal Government disclosed that over 20,000 health professionals were recruited in 2024, while an additional 15,000 have been approved for employment in 2025.

The ministry said the move aligns with broader reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s health infrastructure, improve morale among professionals, and guarantee the delivery of quality healthcare to citizens.

Ongoing negotiations with the Nigerian Medical Association, Joint Health Sector Unions, and other groups are being facilitated by industrial relations expert Professor Dafe Otobo, who was appointed to foster a transparent and sustainable resolution to all pending issues.

The statement further clarified matters concerning disciplinary cases, certificate reclassification, and delays in payments, assuring that due processes are being followed in collaboration with relevant agencies.