Nigeria TV Info 

FG Begins Payment of Doctors’ Arrears, Moves to Ease Health Sector Tension

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the long-awaited payment of outstanding arrears owed to medical doctors across the country, in a move aimed at reducing tension in the health sector and addressing months of industrial concerns.

According to official sources, the payments cover salary shortfalls, hazard allowances, and other backlog entitlements accumulated over time due to budgetary delays and administrative bottlenecks. The government said the intervention is part of ongoing efforts to improve welfare conditions for healthcare workers and prevent further disruption in hospital services.

Health authorities confirmed that the disbursement process has already begun in phases, with priority given to federal tertiary hospitals before extending to other health institutions. The move follows series of negotiations between government representatives and medical unions, which have repeatedly demanded prompt settlement of arrears.

The government assured that this development is not a one-off gesture but part of a broader health sector reform plan aimed at strengthening workforce retention, improving working conditions, and reducing brain drain among Nigerian doctors.

Medical associations have welcomed the payment, although some leaders insist that sustained commitment is needed to fully restore trust and stability in the system.