The federal government has taken back the controversial circular regarding nurses’ wages that recently sparked widespread discontent among health workers and raised the possibility of a nationwide strike.
Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, announced the withdrawal on Thursday during a briefing with State House correspondents after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu.
Pate emphasized that the government remains dedicated to maintaining industrial harmony and ensuring continuous healthcare services across the nation.
He acknowledged that the circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) caused dissatisfaction among nurses and other health professionals due to its potential impact on earned wages and welfare benefits.
“We acknowledge the discontent caused by the recent circular, and in our commitment to a listening government, we have withdrawn it,” the minister said.
“We are now in transparent negotiations to increment allowances and resolve welfare concerns raised by our health workers.”
The circular, which appeared to adjust salary structures and entitlements, triggered responses from the Nigeria Union of Nurses and affiliated health groups, who threatened to take industrial action if the directive was not withdrawn.
Pate confirmed that the government has initiated formal discussions with relevant groups, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the nurses’ union, to address their complaints and negotiate sincerely.
He said the timelines for discussions have been extended and the ministry of finance is already preparing disbursement plans for outstanding arrears.
He also spoke to concerns raised by nurses about the centralised approach to postings and recruitment.
“For the nurses’ demands regarding centralisation of postings, we have agreed to manage postings in a fair and orderly manner,” he said.
Highlighting broader changes in the sector, Pate commended Tinubu’s leadership for driving what he described as a “revolution” in the country’s healthcare system, especially through investments in infrastructure.
The minister disclosed that FEC approved N3.7 billion for a modern oncology centre at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. This includes the purchase and installation of advanced cancer treatment equipment such as a Linear Accelerator.
He added that the UCH upgrade complements cancer centres already established in Katsina, Maiduguri, and Enugu, and new facilities are also being planned for Lagos, Nasarawa, and other states.
Pate further said that within the past week, the federal government had launched over ten key healthcare initiatives at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, covering neurology, stroke care, heart care, interventional radiology, and oncology.
“This level of attention from a presidency to strengthen the health system is unprecedented,” he said.
Speaking directly to healthcare workers, Pate appealed for understanding and collaboration.
“We call on all our health workers — nurses, doctors, and other professionals — to keep the Nigerian person at the centre of our attention. Let us focus on patient care while negotiations continue,” Pate said.
He assured them that the government is “working in good faith” and will allocate resources to address welfare concerns.
“President Tinubu has encouraged the ministry to double down on both infrastructure upgrades and health worker welfare,” he said.
Pate urged union leaders to be patient and maintain trust in the dialogue process.
“This government is fully committed to keeping hospitals open and nurses on duty to secure the health of all Nigerians,” he added.
