The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on all employers of medical professionals, including government bodies, to make the welfare of doctors a top priority as a way to tackle the ongoing “japa” syndrome where medical personnel leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
Speaking in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during a grand reception organized in honour of newly appointed commissioners and senior special assistants (SSA Medical and SSA Insurance), NMA National President, Bala Audu, addressed journalists on the matter. The event was held at the Doctors’ Mess on Monday.
Audu noted that the global shortage of medical professionals is not unique to Nigeria, but he emphasized that improved welfare remains key to retaining doctors in the country.
“Shortage of medical doctors is not peculiar to Akwa Ibom or Nigeria alone. In fact, it is a global phenomenon. What I would advise is that employers of medical personnel including federal, state, and local governments must prioritise doctors’ welfare in order to keep them in the system,” he stated.
The NMA president commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for implementing a health workforce retention policy, which he described as a step in the right direction towards improving the welfare of medical staff in the state.
He also urged the governor to ensure uniform standards across all health facilities in the state, noting that unity and collaboration among various healthcare professional associations are essential for effective service delivery.
“The health sector is a key part of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda. I have observed the improvements made, particularly in the area of workforce retention. Regardless of the investments in infrastructure and equipment, the real strength lies in the unity and welfare of the health workforce,” Audu added.
In his welcome address, the Akwa Ibom State NMA Chairman, Aniekan Peter, applauded the governor for appointing three medically trained professionals into the State Executive Council. He pledged the association’s continued support to both the appointees and the governor in advancing the state’s healthcare agenda.
“We stand firmly with you and with Governor Umo Eno to ensure that the welfare of medical professionals reaches its peak, and that the health of Akwa Ibom people is secured,” Dr. Peter said.
He described the commissioners as ambassadors of the NMA and highlighted the association’s recent initiatives, including a health centre project launched in March, which he said has positively impacted lives across the state. He also emphasized ongoing collaborations with ECWS and teaching hospitals, which aim to extend healthcare access to underserved rural communities.
