ABUJA, NIGERIA — Health workers in Nigeria have called on the Federal Government to urgently address worsening economic hardship, rising energy costs, and the growing wave of insecurity across the country, warning that the situation is increasingly affecting healthcare delivery and workers’ welfare.
The appeal was made by representatives of various health sector unions, who expressed concern that the current economic realities are placing significant pressure on hospitals, clinics, and frontline medical personnel.
According to the health workers, the rising cost of living, coupled with inflation and high transportation expenses, has made it difficult for many professionals in the sector to sustain themselves while continuing to provide essential services to patients.
They also highlighted the impact of insecurity on healthcare delivery, noting that attacks on rural communities, kidnappings, and general instability have made it difficult for health workers to operate effectively in some parts of the country.
The unions urged the Federal Government to take immediate steps to improve security across vulnerable regions, particularly areas where medical personnel are often targeted or unable to work safely.
They further called for urgent intervention in the energy sector, stressing that the high cost of electricity and fuel has significantly increased operational expenses in hospitals, many of which already struggle with limited funding and outdated infrastructure.
The health workers warned that if the challenges are not addressed, the quality of healthcare delivery in Nigeria could decline further, with serious consequences for patients and the overall public health system.
They also appealed for improved remuneration, timely payment of salaries, and better working conditions to help retain skilled professionals who are increasingly considering opportunities abroad due to difficult domestic conditions.
Stakeholders in the health sector have long argued that Nigeria’s healthcare system requires comprehensive reforms, including increased budgetary allocation, improved infrastructure, and stronger support for frontline workers.
Analysts note that the ongoing economic pressure on health workers reflects broader national challenges, including inflationary trends and rising operational costs across critical sectors.
The unions emphasized that addressing these issues is essential not only for the welfare of health professionals but also for strengthening the country’s healthcare system and improving access to quality medical services for citizens.
They urged the government to engage more actively with labour representatives to find sustainable solutions that balance economic realities with the need for an efficient and motivated healthcare workforce.
