National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Faith Toye
Bala Audu, President of the National Medical Association (NMA), has expressed deep concern over the ongoing brain drain among healthcare professionals in Nigeria. He urged governments at all levels to implement the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure uniformly.
During a press conference marking the 2024 National Physicians’ Week in Ibadan, Audu highlighted the theme, “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare System.”
He emphasized the urgent need for timely payment of salary upgrades and stressed that the exodus of healthcare workers is a result of inadequate compensation and lack of career satisfaction.
“When healthcare workers receive fair remuneration, they feel valued and respected, which enhances their dedication to patient care,” Audu stated.
He pointed out the existing disparities in pay, which vary by location and institution, creating an unsustainable system that cannot compete globally.
Audu noted that many health workers are overworked and underpaid, with salary inconsistencies contributing to the discouragement of young professionals from entering or remaining in the field.
He called for substantial investment in healthcare infrastructure and improved working conditions, emphasizing that Nigeria possesses a wealth of skilled and passionate healthcare talent.
He urged Nigerian leaders to recognize the importance of competitive salary packages and benefits to retain talent, warning that failure to do so will result in losing top professionals to countries that offer better support for their workforce.
