Oyo NMA Begins Nat’l Physicians’ Week, Frowns At Disparity In Renumeration Of Health Workers
President, Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Professor Bala Audu has again frowned at the level of brain drain among health professionals in Nigeria, calling on all levels of government to ensure the uniform implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), across all states and healthcare levels.
Professor Audu made this known in Ibadan while speaking through the Oyo state chairman, Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Happy Adedapo in commemoration of the 2024 National Physicians’ Week with the theme “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare System,”
Professor Audu also called for the prompt payment of all outstanding arrears related to salary upgrades, noting that the mass exodus, known as “brain drain,” of health professionals were not merely a symptom of individual decisions; but a consequence of a system that fails to offer fair compensation and career fulfillment.
He said fair remuneration is more than just a salary figure, but a recognition of a value, motivator for excellence, and a safeguard mout.
He said “When a healthcare worker is remunerated fairly and equitably, they feel valued and respected. This respect, in turn, fuels their dedication, strengthens their commitment to patient care, and fortifies the larger health ecosystem.
“Unfortunately, despite the strides we have made, healthcare workers in Nigeria face a host of financial disparities.
“Pay structures vary widely depending on location, institution, and cadre, creating a fragmented remuneration system that is neither sustainable nor competitive on a global scale.
“Many doctors and indeed health workers, find themselves overworked and underpaid, and the inconsistency in salaries is evident not only across the country but even within similar healthcare institutions.
“These disparities discourage young and talented healthcare professionals from entering or staying in the workforce, ultimately exacerbating the burden on those who remain.
While emphasizing the important of quality investment in the country’s health infrastructure, improve working conditions for healthcare workers, and prioritize health in the national agenda, Professor Audu explained that Nigeria is blessed with the talented, knowledgeable, and the passionate health workers that are capable of achieving great things.
He said “What we need now is the support and investment from our leaders.
“Globally, countries recognize the importance of fair remuneration and invest in competitive salary packages and attractive benefits to retain healthcare talent. Nigeria must recognize that its healthcare professionals, just like any other global workforce, are mobile. We cannot expect to compete for talent unless we make remuneration fair, transparent, and universally applicable. The alternative is the loss of our best and brightest minds to countries willing to invest in their workforce” He added.
