Over 200 health workers hired by the Kaduna State Government in June last year have raised concerns over their unpaid salaries for the past eight months, according to reports.
In 2023, the state government embarked on a recruitment drive, hiring over 200 nurses on grade level seven to serve in various general hospitals across the state.
However, the affected nurses revealed that despite rendering their services diligently, they have not received their salaries for the past eight months. They noted that they were only compensated for three months’ work, covering the period from February to April.
Expressing their grievances, one of the affected nurses, who preferred anonymity, lamented the financial strain caused by the delayed payments. He highlighted the challenges faced by single mothers and divorcees among them, who rely solely on their salaries to support their families.
The affected health workers appealed to Governor Uba Sani to intervene urgently to ensure the prompt payment of their outstanding arrears. They emphasized the difficulties faced by those stationed in rural areas, who incur additional expenses for rent, transportation, and daily sustenance.
Another affected midwife shared her ordeal, citing the financial burden of commuting to work daily. She disclosed spending a significant portion of her salary on transportation alone, leaving little for other essential expenses.
In response to the situation, Ishaku Yakubu, the Chairman of the National Association of Nurses and Midwife, Kaduna Chapter, confirmed the unpaid salary arrears. He assured the affected health workers that efforts were underway to address the issue, noting his engagement with relevant authorities to expedite the payment process.
