Nigerian health sector needs emergency declaration, improved doctor remuneration, says Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital ARD President
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Dr. John Omotoso, President of the Association of Resident Doctors at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, has called for a state of emergency in Nigeria's health sector due to its "appalling" condition. He emphasized the need for improved healthcare delivery and better remuneration for health workers, stating that no medical doctor should earn less than N1 million monthly given current economic realities. Omotoso highlighted that poor conditions and inadequate pay contribute to the mass migration of health workers abroad, leading to a shortage of medical personnel. He also suggested that federal and state governments should prevent politicians from seeking medical treatment abroad, arguing this would compel them to prioritize funding and develop local hospitals. Omotoso noted that the entry-level salary for doctors is currently between N250,000 and N300,000, urging an increase to at least N1 million monthly to reflect inflation and economic conditions. He made these remarks during the 32nd induction ceremony for new medical graduates at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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