Abdurrahman Ali, Chairman of the Kano State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), has disclosed that approximately 15,000 medical doctors have left Nigeria as of 2024, largely due to inadequate compensation. He shared this insight during a press conference focused on the ongoing challenges faced by doctors within the state.
The briefing was held in commemoration of this year’s Physicians’ Week, centered around the theme ‘Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: a Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare System’. Ali emphasized that the issue of fair remuneration extends beyond salary figures, symbolizing acknowledgment of the critical role doctors play in society.
“Fair remuneration is more than just a salary figure; it is recognition of our value. A motivator for excellence and a safeguard against burnout in any industry, particularly in healthcare,” he stated.
According to Ali, adequate compensation should reflect the extensive time, emotional investment, and dedication healthcare professionals bring to their roles.
He stressed that when healthcare workers are respected and fairly compensated, it not only enhances their dedication but also strengthens their commitment to patient care, ultimately supporting the entire healthcare system.
Ali further called on the Kano State government to honor its commitments to health professionals, specifically urging the fulfillment of the newly agreed-upon hazard allowance for health workers, as outlined in the revised agreement with the NMA.
