The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Oyo State Council, has rejected the proposed 7.5 per cent health insurance deduction from the salaries of its members, warning that the move is ill-timed and would further compound the financial hardship faced by nurses and midwives in the state.
The union made its position known on Tuesday in Ibadan, stating that the proposed increase would place additional pressure on workers already grappling with severe economic challenges.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Comrade Victor Adeleke, and Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Aina, the association said the deduction should not be increased under the prevailing economic conditions. It insisted that the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme should retain the existing deduction level without any upward review.
According to the statement, NANNM argued that the proposed increase was inappropriate at a time when workers are struggling to meet basic living expenses, noting that any additional deductions would only worsen the burden on its members.
While commending Gov. Seyi Makinde for the prompt payment of salaries and ongoing infrastructural development across the state, the association appealed to the governor to exercise caution over policies or actions by government agencies that could impose further financial strain on workers.
“We appeal to the governor to be mindful of any agency that intends to impose a heavy burden on workers in Oyo State,” the union said.
NANNM also urged the state government to prioritise workers’ welfare, particularly in the face of the current economic downturn.
“The association emphasises the need for the government to consider the welfare of its employees, especially during these challenging economic times,” the statement added.
