Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has approved a substantial increase in rural allowances for health workers as part of efforts to address the shortage of medical personnel in remote communities across the state.

The governor announced the decision after inspecting several government projects in the northern part of Borno.

The inspection covered Government Secondary School in Gubio, two general hospitals, and ongoing housing developments in Gubio and Magumeri Local Government Areas.

Under the new arrangement, medical doctors posted to rural areas under the State Hospital Management Board will receive a rural allowance equivalent to their full basic salary, representing a 100 percent increase.

Nurses and midwives serving in similar locations will receive a 40 percent increase in their rural allowances. The policy will take effect from January 1.

Governor Zulum stated that the move was driven by persistent manpower gaps in public health facilities, particularly in rural communities.

“We are facing serious challenges with human resources for health. Many of our hospitals do not have enough doctors and nurses,” he said.

1“Our findings show that a significant number of medical professionals prefer working with international organizations because the pay is better. We must respond to this reality.”

According to the governor, the improved welfare package is expected to make rural postings more attractive and encourage more qualified personnel to work in general hospitals at the local government level.

He expressed optimism that the incentive would significantly improve healthcare delivery in villages and underserved areas, adding that health workers willing to take up rural postings should report to the State Hospital Management Board.

During his visit to Government Secondary School in Gubio, the governor also directed the immediate provision of essential facilities for the school’s laboratories and library to enhance teaching and learning.

The inspection tour was attended by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North; members of the House of Representatives Usman Zannah and Engr. Bukar Talba; and several commissioners and senior government officials, including those in charge of information, works and housing, local government affairs, and water resources.

The allowance increase is part of the Zulum administration’s broader strategy to strengthen public service delivery and improve living conditions in rural communities across Borno State.