By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has rolled out sweeping reforms in the health sector, combining wel...
By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has rolled out sweeping reforms in the health sector, combining welfare improvements for health workers with large-scale infrastructure development.
The reforms, which have drawn commendation from medical unions and professional associations, include the full implementation of the revised 2024 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
In a joint press conference, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists, and the Joint Health Sector Union said the new salary package would add over ₦518 million monthly, amounting to ₦6.22 billion annually, to the state’s wage bill for health workers.
The unions described the move as a bold step that restores dignity to the medical profession, enhances staff retention, and helps to curb brain drain. They also welcomed the governor’s directive requiring local governments to shoulder 60% of the new CONHESS structure for staff under the Primary Healthcare Board.
Governor Sani also approved the automatic employment of the 2025 graduating medical students of Kaduna State University (KASU) as House Officers at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, a move expected to provide continuity of care, career pathways for young doctors, and stability in service delivery.
In addition, the state reintroduced the bond system for state-sponsored medical students and resident doctors, mandating a minimum of three years’ service after graduation or residency training. The unions said the measure would ensure that government investments in medical education benefit Kaduna residents directly.
On infrastructure, the government has completed a 300-bed Specialist Hospital, commenced the renovation of 15 General Hospitals, and revitalised more than 200 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state. Other projects include the construction of three oxygen plants, establishment of Special Baby Care Units in three hospitals, upgrading of the state’s medical warehouse, procurement of advanced medical equipment, and acquisition of seven life support ambulances.
Health sector stakeholders hailed these reforms as evidence of Governor Sani’s people-centred governance. They said Kaduna had become a reference point in health sector investment and urged other states to emulate the model.
“The reforms reflect consistency, passion, and a clear commitment to health as an investment in human capital,” the unions said, adding that health workers in Kaduna now feel motivated to stay, serve with pride, and contribute to building a healthier and more resilient future for the state.
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