The Chairman of the Committee of Chief Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Hospitals, Prof. Emem Bassey, has revealed that some African countries are offering doctors from Nigeria significantly higher salaries, ranging from $3000 to $4000, in comparison to the wages they receive in Nigeria. This amount is reportedly four times the earnings of doctors within Nigeria.
Prof. Bassey, who also serves as the CMD of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, highlighted the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare sector, particularly in terms of manpower crisis and brain drain. He emphasized that health professionals are leaving for countries that offer better compensation, and he cited instances where medical specialists are being sought after by countries on the West Coast of Africa.
During his appearance before the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee investigating employment racketeering in federal government agencies, Prof. Bassey spoke about the critical need to address the shortage of health professionals. He noted that while recruitment approvals are granted, obtaining the necessary waivers is a complex process, making it difficult to comply with federal character principles during recruitment.
Prof. Bassey also pointed out that previous governments had made unrealistic agreements to end strikes due to the urgency of the situation, leading to unfulfilled commitments.
The Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, urged Nigerian doctors to prioritize patriotism and contribute to the development of their country, even if they have better opportunities abroad. He acknowledged the lack of advanced medical facilities within the Nigerian healthcare sector and emphasized the need to balance the urgency of filling vacancies with the spirit of federal character in recruitment.
Hon. Gagdi emphasized the importance of Nigerian doctors remaining in the country to contribute to their homeland and encouraged them to set an example of dedication and patriotism for their fellow professionals. He assured that the committee would consider the submissions made by the medical directors and work towards finding solutions to the challenges within the healthcare sector.
The Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee concluded by emphasizing the committee’s commitment to addressing the issues raised by medical professionals and reiterated that the government is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the healthcare sector and improving conditions for health workers.
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