Niger State rejects requests from medics to move from rural to urban postings

More than 70 per cent of newly employed medical doctors and health workers in Niger State have rejected their assignments to rural areas. The state Commissioner of Health, Dr Murtala Bagana, disclosed this during an orientation for 396 Gavi-supported staff being absorbed into the Niger State Civil Service.

Dr Bagana stated that the government will no longer accept excuses for requests to be reposted from rural primary health facilities to urban or preferred locations. He noted that while there is a general shortage of healthcare workers, there is also a significant mal-distribution of existing staff.

The Commissioner warned that health workers could face queries or dismissal for misconduct, noting that many other practitioners are waiting to fill available roles. He assured the new employees that the state government would provide necessary equipment and a conducive working environment.