By Bunmi Yekini
In an urgent call to stem the exodus of Nigerian doctors to better-paying countries, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State Chapter, launched the 2024 Physicians’ Week with a strong appeal for the universal applicability of doctor remuneration. Dr. Babajide Kehinde Saheed, Chairman of NMA Lagos, addressed the media to emphasize the event’s theme, “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in Healthcare Industry,” which underscores the critical need for fair and standardized pay across Nigeria to retain healthcare talent.
“The Nigerian healthcare system is on life support,” Dr. Saheed stated. “Physicians are leaving in droves because of inadequate pay and lack of welfare support. We see policies being discussed but hardly implemented, leaving doctors with no choice but to seek opportunities elsewhere.”
Dr. Saheed detailed how disparities in pay across federal, state, and local governments drive both internal and external “brain drain” among Nigerian physicians, a phenomenon popularly known as the “Japa syndrome.” “Doctors move to other regions or countries where they feel valued,” he explained, “yet here in Nigeria, remuneration remains one of the worst globally. The high cost of living and inflation make the current medical salary scale, CONMESS, almost meaningless.”
In response to these challenges, the NMA Lagos Chapter is pushing for CONMESS to serve as a minimum wage across all regions, with regular reviews to reflect the economic realities of inflation and living costs. “Remuneration should not depend on which state a doctor serves,” Dr. Saheed asserted. “Implementing universal applicability would help retain our medical talent within the country.” He further called for adjustments to salaries to match Nigeria’s economic conditions, without relying on doctors to resort to strikes.
This call for policy reform is essential to halt both the external brain drain and the internal migration of doctors from poorly-paid state roles to higher-paying federal positions. “Today, ‘Japa Syndrome’ is not a new phenomenon,” Dr. Saheed noted. “Our medical and dental practitioners are leaving all sectors of Nigeria for countries that offer fair compensation and a dignified working environment. Despite government concerns over this brain drain, we have yet to see tangible action addressing the push factors driving doctors out of the country.”
Beyond physician retention, the event also focuses on addressing infectious diseases, particularly the rising cases of monkeypox. Dr. Saheed emphasized a comprehensive approach, including vaccination, sanitation programs, and an effective disease surveillance system. “Preparedness for outbreaks and proper infection control must become priorities,” he urged, highlighting the need for infrastructure, capacity-building, and budgetary support.
The Physicians’ Week lineup includes activities such as free medical outreach in Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government, the NMA Lagos Games at Teslim Balogun Stadium, and a scientific conference at LUTH. Notable speakers like Prof. Abiodun Adewuya, Provost of LASUCOM, alongside other health leaders, will address attendees on key topics related to physician welfare and public health challenges.
Dr. Saheed described this year’s Physicians’ Week as not just a celebration, but a vital call to action for meaningful change in the sector.
While acknowledging the dedication of NMA Lagos members who continue to deliver quality healthcare despite poor working conditions, he called on the government and stakeholders to support NMA’s advocacy for universal applicability and improved welfare. “We implore the government to uphold the dignity and welfare of those dedicated to the health of our nation,” he said, urging collaboration to tackle the multi-faceted issues facing Nigeria’s healthcare system.