The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating working conditions and poor welfare of medical doctors employed in the Kogi State civil service.
In a joint statement issued Thursday in Lokoja on behalf of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the National Association of General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), the NMA called on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to urgently address pressing concerns affecting doctors in the state.
The statement was signed by Dr. Olukoya Taiwo (Chairman, NAGGMDP), Dr. David Omeiza (ARD President, Kogi State Specialist Hospital), and Dr. Aikoye Daniel (ARD President, PAAUTH).
While commending Governor Ododo for his efforts in upgrading healthcare infrastructure and expanding the state’s health insurance scheme, the associations stressed that such achievements must be matched with improved welfare for healthcare professionals.
“A more robust and effective healthcare system can only be achieved when the welfare of doctors is prioritized,” the statement read. “Without this, the state cannot become a destination for health tourism.”
The doctors listed several challenges, including Partial implementation of the 2024 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), Lack of financial backing for past promotions, Absence of annual salary increment, Stagnation of doctors on the same salary level for over eight years, and the Decline in the number of practicing doctors due to poor remuneration
They expressed frustration that despite government approval of the new CONMESS structure in November 2023, full implementation remains elusive.
The medical associations noted that while recent government healthcare initiatives have increased patient visits to hospitals, these efforts may fall short without adequate support for medical personnel.
Calling Governor Ododo a “welfare-oriented leader,” the associations urged him to act swiftly to resolve the issues, warning that continued neglect may hinder progress in the state’s health sector.
“We believe the governor will listen and take necessary action.
“Improving doctor welfare is not just beneficial to our members, but to every citizen who depends on quality healthcare,” the statement concluded.
