The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has emphasized the need for a robust mechanism to promote industrial peace and harmony among various union bodies in the health sector.
Dr. Salako made this appeal during a courtesy visit by members of the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standard Committee (NTHISC).
In a statement issued by the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Alaba Balogun, the Minister underscored the critical role of industrial harmony in achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for enhancing healthcare services across the nation.
He reiterated that fostering a peaceful and collaborative environment in the health sector is essential for restoring public confidence in health workers and government policies.
The Minister further charged members of the NTHISC to devise strategies aimed at diffusing tensions among unions in the sector.
He highlighted the importance of financial independence for the committee’s sustainability and assured them of the Federal Government’s support in setting the right direction.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Philip O. Abiodun, expressed concerns about the committee’s financial constraints and inadequate office accommodations.
He emphasized the urgent need for intervention from the Ministry to address these issues, noting that such support is essential for fulfilling the committee’s mandate effectively.
It is worth noting that the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standard Committee, inaugurated in November last year, comprises seasoned health professionals. Its mandate includes conducting investigations and making recommendations to the federal and state governments regarding tertiary healthcare services, advising on financial needs (both recurrent and capital), and studying the financial requirements for training, research, and service delivery in the sector.
