JUST IN: Buhari Govt Bows To Pressure, Releases N4.5bn For Striking Doctors

Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government on Friday released N4.5 billion to 31 Federal Teaching Hospitals and Medical centres nationwide.

This was made known by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, he, the Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire; and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mr Festus Keyamo, briefed President Buhari on the ongoing strike embarked upon by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).

Speaking to State House correspondents, Dr Ngige stated that the N4.5b covered hazard and inducement allowances of the striking doctors for April and May.

Buhari’s Minister said: “Just this morning, before we went to see Mr President, the Ministry of Finance reported that as at this morning, 3 am, they have paid the allowances for hazard and inducement to 31 teaching and Federal Medical Centres and specialist hospitals of the Federal Government service and 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 apples and 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.”