In what would seem like a desperate move to stem the consequences of doctors’ nationwide strike, President Muhammadu Buhari, has rushed to appease the striking medical doctors.
Minister of Health, Doctor Osagie Ehanire, Labour Ministers, Chris Ngige and Festus Keymo today, announced the release of N4.5 billion to 31 Federal Teaching Hospitals and Medical Centres nationwide.
Te money was made available after the 3 ministers briefed President Buhari on the strike action embarked upon by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARRD).
Labour Minister, Chris Ngige told newsmen that the money was meant to cover the doctors’ hazard and inducement allowances for the months os April and May.
According to him: “Just this morning, before we went to see Mr President, the Ministry of Finance reputed that as at this morning, 3:00am, they have paid the allowances for hazard and inducement to 31 teaching and federal medical centres and specialist hospitals of the Federal Government . They have expended close to N4.5 billion on the payment because we are paying them the arrears of April and May.
“The payment for June will also be done immediately these ones are sorted out.
“Again, it is important to report to you that in consonance with what he is saying, we have arranged a meeting for them to speak to the Nigerian Governors Forum because you don’t mix apple with oranges.
“The issue of health is on the concurrent list, so the Federal Government will do its own and the state governments will be expected to do their own.
“Some of their grievances border on what they feel the state governments have not done.
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