The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Health, Dr. Salma Ibrahim Annas, has disclosed that Borno State is the only state in Nigeria currently implementing a 30% bonus allowance for health workers in rural areas. This bonus, which constitutes 30% of their total monthly salary, is designed to enhance the welfare of rural health personnel and motivate them to deliver high-quality healthcare services.
During a visit to Maiduguri on Thursday, Dr. Annas commended Borno State’s efforts, stating, “We are here to express our deep appreciation for the remarkable progress you have achieved in the health sector within such a short time. Your commitment to healthcare, particularly in human resources, is evident in the implementation of a 30% salary increment for rural health workers. This initiative is a significant incentive, similar to practices in South Africa, where it has contributed to notable improvements in community health.”
She further lauded the state’s commitment to health financing, noting, “Your Excellency, we highly commend your efforts, as you have exceeded expectations in health financing. The World Health Organization recommends allocating 15% of the budget to health, but aside from Borno, few states have even reached 10%.”
Dr. Annas also acknowledged Borno State’s achievements in primary healthcare and human resources, including the establishment of a medical school and new colleges of nursing and midwifery, which she said would significantly contribute to the health sector’s development.
In response, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to further investment in and upgrading of the healthcare sector.
The meeting was attended by key state officials, including the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijani, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Baba Mallam Gana, and the Executive Director of the Borno State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Professor Mohammed Arab Alhaji.
