FG Orders Immediate Measures To Protect Health Workers From Harassment Nationwide –
Federal Government Orders Measures to Protect Health Workers Amid Rising Violence
The Federal Government has mandated the immediate implementation of protective measures for health workers nationwide following a troubling increase in assaults, intimidation, and harassment within federal health institutions.
This directive comes in response to the findings of the Ministerial Committee on the Harassment of Health Workers by Security Personnel. The committee was established after a significant incident at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in Akwa Ibom State in May 2026, which involved operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and led to the disruption of clinical services and subsequent industrial action.
The committee’s report revealed that the Uyo incident is part of a larger pattern, documenting 18 similar incidents of violence against health workers over the past year. These incidents, involving patients, relatives, members of the public, and security personnel, have resulted in physical injuries, psychological trauma, damage to hospital property, and significant disruptions in healthcare delivery.
Several factors were identified as contributors to these incidents, including inadequate communication, long wait times, insufficient staffing, poor infrastructure, emotional distress, abuse of authority, and a lack of clear security protocols.
Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, accepted the committee’s recommendations and directed their prompt implementation. He emphasized the need for health workers to operate in a safe and secure environment free from violence or intimidation.
“The Federal Government will continue to work with all relevant institutions to protect our health workforce, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that healthcare delivery is never compromised,” Pate stated.
Under the new guidelines, individuals who assault, threaten, or harass health workers will face investigation and prosecution under applicable criminal, civil, or administrative laws, provided there is sufficient evidence.
Additionally, the government has ordered federal tertiary health institutions to strengthen internal security, form Violence Prevention Teams, enhance surveillance and access control, and bolster security in emergency units and other sensitive areas. Hospitals will also appoint liaison officers for collaboration with law enforcement, improve complaint-handling mechanisms, and provide staff training on conflict prevention and de-escalation.
The Ministry of Health has indicated that broader policy recommendations will be presented to the National Council on Health, aiming for a nationwide framework applicable to federal, state, and private health institutions. The implementation of these measures will be monitored through periodic progress reports submitted to the Coordinating Minister, reaffirming that violence against healthcare workers and disruptions to care delivery will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
