The Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Niger State chapter, has called on the state government to increase the salaries of its members in recognition of the hazardous nature of their work.
The appeal was made by the state chairman of the union, Comrade Usman Abubakar-Dabban, during a reception held in Minna on Thursday to mark International Workers’ Day.
Abubakar-Dabban described health workers as “game-changers” within the healthcare system, stressing the need for a substantial wage increase to reflect the critical services they render. He proposed a 150 per cent salary increment, saying it would be a fair acknowledgment of their sacrifices.
He also commended the state governor and deputy governor, Yakubu Garba, for implementing the new minimum wage of ₦80,000, which exceeds the federal recommendation.
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The union leader further applauded Garba for initiating the construction of the union’s hall during his tenure as chairman of the union, noting that the project is nearing completion and would soon be inaugurated.
Abubakar-Dabban urged union members to uphold professional ethics, emphasising that maintaining high standards would strengthen their case for improved welfare packages from the government.
Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Niger State Governor on Labour Matters, Aminu Yusuf, praised the workers for their dedication and the warm reception. He stated that Workers’ Day offers an opportunity for labour leaders to reflect on their accomplishments, consolidate progress, and chart new paths to address emerging challenges.