Koko Maxwella 
DUTSE, Nigeria – The Jigawa State Government has approved a new salary structure for medical doctors and other health workers, ending a 15-year stalemate in remuneration and bringing the state’s pay scale in line with federal standards.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Jigawa following Governor Umar Namadi’s approval of the new wage system.
Speaking at a press conference in Dutse, NMA spokesperson Shamsu Gujungu commended the governor for what he called “a visionary and historic reform.”
“This decision restores hope and dignity to the state health workforce after 15 years of salary stagnation,” Gujungu said.
The new structure implements the Federal Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), alongside revised call and hazard allowances. Doctors’ entry points have also been upgraded to CONMESS three.
According to the NMA, Jigawa’s new structure “not only matches the national standard but surpasses it in some components.”
“This bold reform reflects a deep commitment to revitalising the health sector and investing in human capital,” the association stated.
Jigawa, long burdened by one of the country’s worst doctors–patient ratios — about one doctor to 21,000 residents — last reviewed salaries in 2011. The NMA said the reform will help reverse the chronic shortage of healthcare professionals in the state.
The government’s broader health reforms include the establishment of a Medical Village in Dutse, featuring a diagnostic centre, cardiac catheterisation laboratory, cryo-oxygen plant, and new staff recruitment drives.
“With these bold strides, Jigawa is emerging as a new hub for healthcare excellence,” the NMA said. It also invited health professionals nationwide to consider working in the state:
“Come happy — Jigawa is ready to receive you.”
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Otamere Gladness 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwatobi Adu