Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment

The Federal Government has commenced the payment of long-awaited doctors’ salary arrears in Nigeria, offering relief to members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) after months of delays tied to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review.

The association confirmed the development in an official communication signed by its Publicity and Social Secretary, Abdulmajid Ibrahim, noting that disbursement is already underway across various institutions.

According to NARD, the salary arrears payment covers between one and six months for affected doctors, with many members already confirming receipt. The association described the development as a significant step toward resolving lingering welfare concerns in Nigeria’s health sector.

“The leadership of NARD is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears has commenced,” the statement read, highlighting progress on the implementation of the revised salary structure.

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Despite the progress, NARD disclosed that the August component of the arrears is currently experiencing minor administrative delays. The association explained that the issue is being addressed and that payments for that period may take an additional one to two weeks to be completed.

Doctors who are yet to receive their payments have been urged to remain patient, as the Federal Government continues the phased disbursement nationwide.

The CONMESS review, which determines salary scales and allowances for medical and dental practitioners in public hospitals, has long been a source of tension between doctors and the government. Delays in implementing the structure and settling arrears have, in the past, triggered industrial actions by NARD, disrupting healthcare services across the country.

Resident doctors—who form a critical part of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system—have repeatedly raised concerns over poor welfare, unpaid salaries, and challenging working conditions. These issues have contributed significantly to the rising brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector, with many professionals relocating abroad in search of better opportunities.

Industry observers note that the loss of medical personnel has worsened Nigeria’s already strained doctor-to-patient ratio, placing additional pressure on healthcare facilities nationwide.

The commencement of the payment of doctors’ arrears is therefore seen as a strategic move by the Federal Government to stabilise the sector, improve morale among healthcare workers, and avert potential industrial unrest.

NARD further advised members who experience any discrepancies after the disbursement process to channel complaints through their respective institutions for prompt resolution.

Reaffirming its commitment, the association commended members for their patience and resilience, assuring them that efforts to improve welfare conditions will continue.

Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment

Six Months Enough to End Insecurity in Nigeria If … – Ndume

Ali Ndume, Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, has said Nigeria can overcome its persistent security challenges within six months if the Federal Government demonstrates strong political will and adopts a decisive, coordinated approach.

Speaking on Politics Today aired on Channels Television, Ndume expressed concern over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, stressing that the issue requires urgent and result-oriented action rather than prolonged discussions.

According to him, Nigeria has the capacity to tackle insurgency and other threats, but lacks full commitment in execution. He emphasised that properly training, equipping, arming, and motivating Nigerian soldiers would significantly improve operational effectiveness and deliver results within a short timeframe.

The lawmaker decried the continued loss of military personnel, including senior officers, describing it as a serious setback. He cited recent incidents in Northern Borno where a colonel and several soldiers were reportedly killed, warning that such occurrences highlight deeper operational gaps that must be urgently addressed.

Ndume attributed the worsening situation to the inconsistent implementation of security strategies, noting that many operations are not followed through to completion. He urged the government to “walk the talk” and ensure that policies are fully executed to achieve lasting results.

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He further highlighted the importance of technology-driven security solutions, calling for increased deployment of drones, enhanced air support, and improved intelligence gathering systems. According to him, Nigeria already has trained personnel, including special forces, but lacks the necessary equipment and logistics to maximise their impact.

On foreign assistance, Ndume maintained that Nigeria does not necessarily need external combat forces but should focus on acquiring specialised intelligence and technical expertise to strengthen local capacity.

The senator also commended Babagana Zulum for his efforts in stabilising Borno State, noting that the situation could have deteriorated further without the governor’s interventions.

Nigeria is currently facing renewed security challenges, especially in the North-East. A recent airstrike at Jilli Market has drawn scrutiny following reports of civilian casualties. The Nigerian Air Force stated that the strike targeted suspected Boko Haram insurgents and confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into the incident.

The airstrike came shortly after a deadly attack on a military formation in Benisheikh, where troops repelled insurgents but recorded casualties.

Beyond the North-East, banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes continue to pose serious threats across the country, underscoring the urgency of comprehensive and sustained security reforms.

Ndume concluded that with strong leadership, adequate funding, modern technology, and improved troop welfare, Nigeria can significantly reduce insecurity within six months if decisive action is taken.

Six Months Enough to End Insecurity in Nigeria If … – Ndume

FG Opens Application for Second Cohort of TVET Programme to Tackle Unemployment

The Federal Government has officially opened applications for the second cohort of the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, a nationwide skills development initiative designed to tackle unemployment, promote entrepreneurship, and strengthen Nigeria’s technical and vocational education system.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who confirmed that the application portal went live on Monday at 4:00 pm (WAT), urging Nigerians across all age groups to take advantage of the opportunity.

He described the initiative as a key component of the government’s broader human capital development strategy, aimed at equipping citizens with practical, industry-relevant skills that can drive job creation and economic productivity.

Alausa noted that the first phase of the programme recorded massive nationwide participation, with over 1.3 million applications, describing it as evidence of strong demand for vocational training and skills acquisition in Nigeria.

He added that the government remains committed to expanding access to hands-on technical education as part of efforts to reduce unemployment and encourage self-reliance.

TVET Programme Structure: Two Training Tracks

According to official details, the programme is divided into two major pathways:

The Short-Term Certificate Track runs for six months and is designed for beginners seeking foundational technical and vocational skills.

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The Vocational Education and Innovation Track runs for one year and targets individuals with prior informal experience or basic educational background, offering more advanced training in specialised fields.

Both tracks are fully funded and include practical learning delivered through accredited centres across Nigeria.

Eligibility Requirements and Application Process

Applicants are required to have a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) to complete registration.

Candidates applying for the advanced track may also be required to provide proof of prior learning or relevant educational qualifications.

The application process is open to Nigerians nationwide, with training centres spread across federal and state technical colleges as well as accredited private institutions.

Benefits of the TVET Programme

Participants in the programme will enjoy several benefits, including:

• Fully funded free tuition under the Federal Government
• Monthly training stipends to support participants
• Practical, hands-on instruction in selected skill areas
• Nationally recognised certification upon completion
• Access to start-up support and small business financing opportunities

Skills and Training Areas Covered

The programme covers a wide range of high-demand sectors, including:

• Electrical installation and maintenance
• Welding and fabrication
• Automobile repair and mechanical services
• Digital and creative media production
• Fashion design and tailoring
• Agriculture and agribusiness development
• Renewable energy technologies

Officials say the curriculum is designed to align with Nigeria’s growing need for skilled manpower in both industrial and emerging sectors.

FG Push for Skills-Based Economy

The Federal Government says the TVET initiative is part of ongoing reforms aimed at transitioning Nigeria toward a more skills-driven and production-based economy.

It is also expected to reduce dependence on white-collar jobs by encouraging young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship, technical innovation, and self-employment.

With training centres located across all six geopolitical zones, the programme is positioned as one of the government’s largest national efforts to expand access to vocational and technical education in Nigeria.

FG Opens Application for Second Cohort of TVET Programme to Tackle Unemployment