Lagos State government increases the hazard allowances of health workers to N25,000 from N5,000

LAGOS State government has approved an increase in the hazard allowance paid out to its health workers in the public service in appreciating of their role in fighting the coronavirus pandemic upping their pay to N25,000 ($64) from N5,000 a month.

Currently the epicentre of the pandemic in Nigeria accounting for over half of all cases in the country, Lagos has done more than any other state in the country to arrest the virus. It has opened isolation centres, testing clinics and laboratories, with its health officials working flat out to remain on top of the situation.

In appreciation of the tireless efforts of the staff, the state government in a circular signed by Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the head of service, increased their allowances. It indicated that the increase was made in appreciation of the dedication of all health officers as well as their daily hazardous exposure to the highly contagious disease.

The circular read: “It is hereby notified for general information that Mr Governor has approved the increment of hazard allowance for all health officers in Lagos State from N5,000 to N25,000 for the month of April, 2020. The gesture is an incentive to all health officers in the state, as frontline responders in the fight against the pandemic.

“It is believed that the officers would reciprocate the same with more doggedness and enthusiasm towards duty in all health facilities state-wide. Furthermore, I wish to reiterate that our collective efforts will yield the desired result, as this pandemic shall pass."