(DDM) — Bauchi State Government has officially approved a 100 per cent salary increase for doctors and healthcare workers, a move described as the most significant welfare boost in the state’s medical sector, announced on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Government House in Bauchi.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammad Sani Dambam, disclosed the approval following a State Executive Council meeting, noting that the decision followed the recommendations of a special committee set up to evaluate the financial implications of a new scheme of service for healthcare personnel.
The salary increment represents a complete review of the existing scheme and aims to retain skilled medical professionals while enhancing healthcare delivery across the state.
Dr. Dambam highlighted that the new package includes peculiar allowances, such as outside-posting allowances, intended to incentivize doctors and health workers to accept postings in rural or underserved areas.
Healthcare workers employed under the State Primary Healthcare Development Board will also benefit from these allowances, addressing long-standing disparities in welfare provisions.
The council further approved the clearance of outstanding promotion arrears, with at least 2,000 healthcare workers expected to gain from the exercise.
To improve the standard of living for medical personnel, the state government also introduced access to car and housing loans, aimed at easing financial burdens and boosting morale.
Dr. Dambam emphasized that the welfare reforms are part of a broader effort to strengthen the healthcare system and improve service delivery for residents of Bauchi State.
As an accountability measure, biometric and verification systems will be implemented across health facilities to ensure transparency, monitor workforce deployment, and track service effectiveness.
The salary increase has been widely praised by professional associations and union representatives, who describe it as a landmark step towards recognizing the contributions of healthcare workers.
Governor Bala Mohammed, who presided over the Executive Council meeting, stated that the government remains committed to improving the welfare of frontline medical staff, noting their crucial role in sustaining public health services.
The approval comes at a time when Nigerian states are seeking innovative ways to address staff retention, especially in remote areas where medical expertise is often scarce.
Analysts suggest that Bauchi’s comprehensive welfare package, combining salary increments, allowances, promotion arrears, and loans, may serve as a model for other states aiming to boost healthcare delivery.
For doctors and health workers, the announcement marks a turning point, reflecting recognition of their critical role and providing tangible support to ensure their continued dedication and professional growth.
With the new measures in place, Bauchi State expects not only improved employee satisfaction but also enhanced access to quality healthcare services for residents across both urban and rural communities.