FG disburses N20bn as COVID-19 allowance to health workers

A file photo of the Minister of State for Health, Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora

The Minister of State for Health, Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora, while speaking to newsmen on Wednesday, September 8, 2020 said the Federal Government has paid N20 billion as COVID-19 allowance to health workers in the country.

Dr Mamora explained that the Federal Government had to stop the payment of hazard allowance to the health workers because of renegotiation with them but the government has been able to disburse N20 billion to them.

He further said that the health workers saying nothing has been done, is false, pointing out that the Federal Government was able to pay April, May full and part of June because of the economic situation and these funds have to be sourced for one way or the other.

According to the Minister, the funds were paid to “Federal health institutions” across the country including Federal Medical Centres (FMCs), teaching hospitals among others.

On the N5,000 hazard allowance for doctors and health workers, the Minister stated that the payment has existed in the country for about 30 years but was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) had on Monday embarked on an indefinite nationwide strike demanding a pay rise, better welfare, and adequate facilities.