Medical Doctors and other healthcare professionals have lamented what they described as life – threatening workplace hazards confronting them in the tedious task of saving lives across government hospitals, clinics and schools in Akwa Ibom State.
Much of these challenges and lack of commensurate emoluments, LEADERSHIP gathered, dominated the just- concluded 2025 National Physicians’ Week held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, which culminated in a Dinner and Awards in honour of the doctors for the price they pay in the course of performing their essential healthcare services.
Addressing the conferees, the state chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Aniekan Peter, expressed dismay at the Ill – treatment of medical professionals despite risking it all to save humanity, lamenting that “it appears our efforts are undervalued and underappreciated.”
Though he commended governor Umo Eno, for the upcoming new welfare packages (allowances), which he noted, may rank as one of the best in the country, Dr. Peter, made a case for a special salary scale for the medical professionals, urging the government to remove doctors from the state civil service and place them on a special salary scale.
He listed the risks medics take in securing lives of patients to include physical attacks by patients, attending to about 60 patients daily because of staff deficit, contracting ailments from patients and other associated risks leading to depression, family neglect and deaths.
“This is a time to appreciate the tireless efforts of physicians in caring for others. It is a reminder of the crucial role that Physicians’ play in maintaining the health and well-being of our communities.
“Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care have a profound impact on the lives of their patients.
“Unfortunately, in Nigeria, the work of Physicians is often undervalued and underappreciated. Many doctors are overworked, with long hours and large patient loads.
“This takes a toll on their physical and mental well-being, leading to burnout and exhaustion. It is a common sight to see Doctors working without breaks, often skipping meals. Yet, they continue to serve with passion and selflessness.
“While a doctor in a developed country may see 20 patients in a day, in Nigeria, it is not uncommon for a Doctor to see above 60 patients in a busy clinic. This is a testament to the resilience and dedication of Nigerian doctors who continue to serve despite the challenging circumstances,” he stated.
However, he noted that in the face of these challenges, governor Eno, has shown appreciation and support for the medical community.
He said: “The new welfare package is a much-needed boost for medical Doctors and other health care workers who have been struggling with inadequate compensation for their hard work. This gesture from the governor is a commendable step towards valuing the contributions of physicians and uplifting the healthcare sector in the state.
“We urge the federal government to emulate this progressive gesture without delay and to prevent national industrial dispute.”
“We commend the governor for his passion and vigour in his pursuit of the implementation of the ARISE Agenda as it affects the health sector in the state.”
He listed areas of government intervention to include a revolution in the primary healthcare, especially the launch of Health Insurance Agency – Ibom State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Systems (AKISEMSAS); construction of oxygen plants and the construction of new General Hospital at Ukanafun local government area.
Others included the renovation of Accident and Emergency Unit and renal centre at Ikot Ekpene General Hospital, the approval for the recruitment of 2,000 health professionals and 900 contract appointments.
“This will be the largest single recruitment of health care professionals in the history of our dear state,” he noted.
Renovation and upgrading of the Ibom Airport Clinic to international standard and eight other hospitals and 28 health centres, the approval of improved welfare package including Health Sector Peculiar allowance, Retention allowance, Teaching allowance, Accoutrement allowance and a fifth allowance which is Performance based rural allowance.
