“Governor Sani’s Reforms Bring Hope to Kaduna Health Workers”NMA
By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Kaduna State government, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, has implemented a series of reforms aimed at improving the health sector.
The reforms, which were commended by various medical unions and associations, include the approval of 100% implementation of the revised 2024 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
In a joint press conference by the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Medical Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists, and Joint Health Sector Union,
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“The implementation of the new salary structure will bring an additional ₦518,628,393.68 monthly and ₦6,223,540,724.16 annually to the wage bill for health personnel in the state.
The unions commended Governor Sani for his people-centered approach to governance, which has led to the restoration of dignity to medical practice, strengthened retention, and countered brain drain in the health sector.
They also welcomed the governor’s directive mandating local government councils to commence payment of 60% share of CONHESS 2024 for staff under the Primary Healthcare Board.
The unions applauded the governor’s decision to automatically employ the 2025 graduating medical students of Kaduna State University (KASU) as House Officers at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital (BDTH). This move is expected to secure continuity of care, provide career pathways for young doctors, and stabilize service delivery.
The unions also commended the re-establishment of the bond system for state-sponsored medical students and resident doctors, which requires a minimum of three years’ service post-graduation or post-residency. This move guarantees that public investment in medical education directly benefits the people of Kaduna State.
“The salary structure implementation, the state government has also embarked on significant infrastructural development in the health sector.
“These include the completion of the 300-bed Specialist Hospital, ongoing renovation of 15 General Hospitals, revitalization of over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres, construction of three oxygen plants, establishment of three Special Baby-care Units, upgrade of a state-of-the-art Medical Warehouse, procurement of medical equipment, and procurement of seven advanced Life Support Ambulances.
The unions expressed their gratitude to Governor Sani for his commitment to the health sector, stating that the reforms reflect consistency, passion, and a clear commitment to health as an investment in human capital.
They noted that Kaduna State has set a standard worthy of emulation across the federation, and that health workers now have renewed confidence to remain in Kaduna, serve with pride, and help build a healthier, more resilient future for citizens.