The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Gombe State branch, has commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for approving the full implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers in the state.
The approval, announced during the opening ceremony of the maiden Gombe State Health Summit held on October 2–3, 2025, will take effect from November.
It brings the salaries of state health workers in line with those of their federal counterparts, addressing what the association described as a long-standing disparity.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Dr. Ahmad Girbo, the NMA described the move as “a landmark approval and a transformative new dawn for the healthcare sector in Gombe State.”
“This visionary and decisive action harmonises the remuneration of state health workers with their federal counterparts,” the statement read. “It marks a monumental leap forward and a clear testament to the governor’s deep commitment to prioritising the welfare of healthcare professionals.”
According to the association, the decision will boost morale, curb brain drain, attract top talent, and ultimately enhance healthcare delivery across the state.
The NMA noted that Governor Yahaya’s gesture forms part of a broader vision to revitalise the health system in Gombe. It cited key interventions such as the transformation of the Gombe State Specialist Hospital, the revitalisation of primary healthcare centres and general hospitals, and the establishment of the College of Nursing and Midwifery. Initiatives such as GoHealth and GoPharma were also highlighted as part of the administration’s healthcare reforms.
“The full implementation of CONMESS and CONHESS is not merely a financial adjustment, but a strategic investment in the health security of Gombe State,” Girbo stated. “It stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when a responsive government engages in constructive dialogue with key stakeholders.”
The NMA also acknowledged the roles of several stakeholders in achieving the salary review, including the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who declared the summit open; the Minister of Health; the Deputy Governor of Gombe State; the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru; and senior officials of the State Hospital Management Board and the Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (GoHealth).
While expressing gratitude to these figures, the association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the state government’s healthcare initiatives.
“We pledge our continued partnership with the government and remain committed to ensuring that this landmark gesture translates into sustained, dedicated, and compassionate service delivery across all health facilities in Gombe State,” the statement concluded.
