NMA blames brain drain in Nigerian health sector on poor remuneration of medical personnel

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has decried the increasing brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector, attributing it to poor welfare and remuneration of members.

The NMA says to address the human capital flight in Nigeria, the federal government must take stock of the situation and address the anomalies.

The NMA National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Aniekeme Uwah raised the alarm over the weekend while interacting with journalists on the ”Post COVID-19 Economy and the challenges to Ethical Journalism Ahead of 2023 Elections.”

Uwah also emphasized the need for proper budgetary provisions for the health sector to avoid unnecessary strike actions by health workers.

He said, “the rate of brain drain in the country is worrisome. I’m afraid of what the future holds and the fate of the younger ones. We relate and interact with some of our colleagues who work abroad and we know how much they are paid and how they are being taken care of.

“So many of our colleagues in Nigeria have moved for greener pastures abroad and if this is not tackled, the health sector will be highly affected. The only solution is for government to make adequate budgetary provisions so that doctors and other health workers will be motivated and well renumerated.”

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel in Uyo, Idongesit Ashameri said the daily unfolding negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nation’s economy and survival of journalists have posed a great threat to journalism ethics and practice.

He noted that the goal of the interactive session was to equip members with the capacity to uphold the ethics of the profession amidst economic challenges occasioned by the COVID- 19 pandemic.

“The year’s theme is aimed at sharpening our skills and keeping us within ethically acceptable boundaries for better service delivery and to contribute to nation-building.” She said.