The Federal Government has inaugurated a committee on collective bargaining for the health sector, signaling the start of negotiations with major health unions and associations. The committee, led by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, aims to address issues such as remuneration, working conditions, professional development, and overall welfare.

This initiative follows a recent 21-day ultimatum issued by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and comes amid ongoing tensions in the health sector, with the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) having suspended a warning strike while awaiting government action.

Professor Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized that the committee’s establishment is a significant step toward creating a fair and sustainable framework for health workers. He highlighted the importance of health workers in delivering quality healthcare.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, noted that collective bargaining is essential for achieving industrial peace and ensuring the welfare of health workers. The committee’s formation is seen as a critical component of broader health sector reforms aimed at improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.