The Kano State chapter of the National Association of Government General and Medical Dental Practitioners has announced an indefinite strike set to commence on October 1, 2024, following the Kano State Government’s failure to fulfill agreements made with the medical community.
In a press briefing on Saturday, Dr. Anas Idris Hassan, the secretary of the association, expressed the disappointment of medical practitioners regarding the government’s inaction. “Despite reaching an agreement with the Kano State Government in June, our demands are yet to be met,” Anas stated.
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He pointed out that one of the key issues remains the post-COVID-19 hazard allowances, which have been provided by the Federal Government since 2021 but remain unpaid by the Kano government. Anas also highlighted the plight of newly employed medical doctors, who have not received their salaries since being hired in September 2023.
The association raised concerns over the deteriorating conditions of hospitals in Kano and the lack of essential medical equipment. Anas emphasized the urgency of addressing “these ugly trends,” noting the significant impact on healthcare delivery in the region.
Furthermore, Anas drew attention to the alarming doctor-to-patient ratio in Kano, which falls far below the World Health Organization’s standards. With an estimated population of 20 million, the state is served by only 600 doctors, resulting in a staggering ratio of one doctor for every 33,000 patients.
Faced with these pressing issues, the medical practitioners feel they have no choice but to proceed with the planned strike on October 1.
