The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Jigawa State chapter, has commended Governor Umar A. Namadi for approving a long-awaited salary review for doctors and other health workers, effectively ending a 15-year stalemate in the state’s healthcare remuneration structure.

In a statement signed by the association’s Publicity Secretary, Dr. Shamsu Gujungu, the NMA praised the Governor for implementing the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) — aligning Jigawa’s pay with the national standard and, in some cases, surpassing it.

Jigawa Sets Benchmark for Healthcare Governance

The statement described the move as a landmark achievement in healthcare governance, noting that Governor Namadi’s administration has positioned Jigawa as a model state in healthcare innovation and worker motivation.

“Under his leadership, Jigawa has become a model of progressive healthcare governance, pioneering one of Nigeria’s most revolutionary healthcare initiatives marked by extensive investments in infrastructure, recruitment, and social health insurance expansion,” the NMA stated.

Among the key achievements highlighted were the revitalisation of primary healthcare centres, the establishment of a Medical Village in Dutse featuring a Diagnostic Centre, Cardiac Catheterization (CATH) Laboratory, and Cryo-Oxygen Plant.

Commendations to Implementation Committee

The NMA also acknowledged the contributions of key officials, including the Head of Civil Service, Muhammad K. Dagacheri; Chairman, State Minimum Wage Committee; Commissioner of Health, Dr. Muhammad Kainuwa; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Kabiru Ibrahim; and the Accountant General, whose “dedication ensured the success of this landmark achievement.”

Jigawa Positioned as Hub for Medical Excellence

Dr. Gujungu noted that with these reforms, Jigawa is fast becoming a new hub for healthcare excellence in Nigeria — where health workers are motivated and patients receive improved quality of care.

“We therefore call on doctors and health workers across the nation to consider Jigawa. For those seeking new opportunities and investments — come happy, Jigawa is ready to receive you,” the statement added.