ADAMAWA HOSTS 22nd NORTHEAST ZONAL MEETING OF MHWUN
By Fidelis Jockthan
Yola, the Adamawa State capital, is currently hosting the 22nd Northeast Zonal Meeting of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN).
The gathering brings together union leaders from across the Northeast geopolitical zone to discuss critical issues affecting their respective states.
Participants during the technical session will present achievements, challenges, and solutions to pressing health sector concerns, particularly in funding, facility management, and workers’ welfare.
Declaring the session open, Adamawa State Head of Service, Pharm. Isa Ardo Shehu—represented by the Permanent Secretary, Establishment Department, Fabian Sylvester Wambai, described the meeting as timely, aligning with government efforts to address sectoral challenges.
Shehu commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for its harmonious relationship with the government and disclosed that a technical committee had been set up to resolve salary disparities in some ministries, including health.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining collaboration and urged participants to propose actionable solutions for regional healthcare improvements.
The Zonal Vice President (Northeast), Comrade Satomi Hikama, applauded the transformative leadership of MHWUN National President, Comrade Kabiru Ado Sani Minjibir, and praised health workers for upholding professional dignity.
He pledged enhanced collaboration with national leaders to safeguard workers’ interests and called for increased investment in union leadership training.
In a goodwill message, Adamawa NLC Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Fashe, attributed the state’s peace to strong government-worker relations.
He urged actionable strategies to improve healthcare delivery.
Similarly, Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Dauda Adamu Ali reaffirmed solidarity among unions.
MHWUN Adamawa Chairman and chief host, Comrade Usman Babbada, called for unity in tackling regional challenges.
He lauded Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for implementing:
100% CONHESS/CONMESS for some health professionals, *90% promotion compliance at the Health Services Management Board.
Upgraded directorate levels (GL 15 to GL 16) at ADSPHCDA, National Housing Fund enrollment for local government health workers, enabling access to loans.
Others are Employment of 1,113 health workers (2021) and *647 additional hires (2022), Retirement benefits computation for LG health workers under CONHESS.
20% furniture allowance (2018 agreement) and *reviewed hazard allowances per federal approval.
A communiqué will be issued at the end of the technical session.
