Japa: 15,000 Doctors Leave Nigeria Due to Poor Remuneration — NMA

The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kano State branch, Dr. Abdurrahman Ali, has expressed concern over the alarming rate of medical professionals leaving Nigeria, revealing that over 15,000 doctors have exited the country as of 2024 due to poor remuneration.

Speaking during a media briefing in Kano to mark this year’s Physician Week, themed “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare System”, Ali lamented the adverse effects of the brain drain on the healthcare sector, highlighting the need for better remuneration for doctors.

“Fair remuneration is more than just a salary figure, it is a recognition of our value. It serves as a motivator for excellence and a safeguard against burnout, particularly in healthcare,” Ali said. “Adequate compensation reflects the time, emotional energy, and personal commitment healthcare professionals invest. When healthcare workers are fairly and equitably respected, it fuels their dedication, strengthens their commitment to patient care, and fortifies the larger health ecosystem.”

Dr. Ali further urged the Kano State government to honour its agreement with the NMA on the implementation of the revised hazard allowance for healthcare workers. He stressed that this would help bridge the gap between state-employed doctors and their federal counterparts, potentially slowing the trend of doctors leaving the country.

“I call on the Kano State government to fulfill the agreement signed with the NMA regarding the revised hazard allowance. This, we believe, will reduce the brain drain and improve the working conditions for doctors within the state,” he added.

The Physician Week will culminate in a medical outreach in Bichi local government area of the State, where residents will benefit from free consultations, free medication, and surgical procedures, including dental and eye surgeries.