By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on all levels of government and other employers of medical professionals to prioritise the welfare of doctors as a key measure to address the country’s growing brain drain crisis, commonly referred to as the “japa syndrome.”
Speaking in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during a grand reception held in honour of newly appointed commissioners and senior special assistants in the health sector, NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, emphasised that the ongoing shortage of medical personnel is not exclusive to Nigeria but a global issue.
He warned, however, that failure to provide better welfare packages and working conditions would continue to drive Nigerian doctors to seek greener pastures abroad.
“Shortage of medical doctors is not peculiar to Akwa Ibom or even Nigeria. The entire world is experiencing a shortage of healthcare workers. What I will advise is that employers of medical personnel, including governments at all levels, must prioritise the welfare of doctors to retain them,” Audu stated.
The NMA President commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, for implementing a health workforce retention policy as part of his administration’s ARISE agenda. He described the policy as a positive step toward addressing the healthcare workforce crisis in the state.
Audu also urged the state government to ensure that all healthcare facilities adhere to uniform standards to deliver quality services across board.
“No matter the level of infrastructure or equipment, a functional healthcare system depends on unity within the health workforce and proper motivation of medical personnel,” he added.
