FEC Gives Ministry Of Health Approval To Recruit Health Workers

FEC Gives Ministry Of Health Approval To Recruit Health Workers

FEC Approves Recruitment of Health Workers to Address Urgent Needs

In the latest Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on January 17, 2024, the Council approved the Federal Ministry of Health’s authority to recruit urgently needed health workers. This decision aims to streamline the recruitment process and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, allowing for a more efficient response to the pressing needs of the health sector.

Here are some of the key decisions reached during the FEC meeting:

1. Group Life Assurance Approval: The Council approved the allocation of N9.2 billion for Group Life Assurance covering federal workers, ministers, para-military, and intelligence officers.
2. Infrastructure Project Approval: The Oyo state government received approval for the reconstruction of the Ojco interchange at Moniya-Akinyele. The project will be funded by the Oyo government.
3. Bilateral Agreement with UAE: The Council approved the signing of an agreement between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the elimination of double taxation on income and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance. The Attorney General was tasked with working on an executive bill to address issues related to double taxation, aiming to boost industries and attract foreign direct investment.
4. Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments: The FEC ratified the agreement between Nigeria and the UAE on the reciprocal promotion and protection of investments.
5. Support for Pharmaceutical Companies: The Council discussed challenges faced by pharmaceutical companies and explored measures, including tax and excise duties reduction, to protect and support the industry. The goal is to make essential drugs more affordable for the Nigerian population.
6. Restoration of Health Regulatory Agencies: Thirteen health regulatory agencies, which were initially excluded from the 2024 budget, were restored.
7. Action Against Illegal Mining and Logging: The defense minister and the minister of solid minerals were assigned the task of developing enforcement structures to curb illegal mining, logging, and related activities.
8. Policy Guidelines on Transnational Education: The FEC approved policy guidelines on transnational education in Nigeria.
9. Executive Order for Health Workers Recruitment: The Federal Ministry of Health was granted the authority to approve the recruitment of urgently needed health workers. Additionally, an executive order is in the works to address immediate challenges in this segment of the industry.

The government expressed its commitment to engaging with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria to discuss industry-wide challenges and seek solutions. These decisions reflect the ongoing efforts to address critical issues across various sectors and improve the overall well-being of the nation.