The federal government has announced the formation of a committee to review and improve the salaries of medical doctors and other healthcare professionals. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance the working conditions and attractiveness of Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, revealed that over 17,000 doctors were trained in Nigerian universities over the past five years, but more than half have sought opportunities abroad. Pate expressed concern over the emigration of young doctors and emphasized the need to create a supportive environment to retain healthcare professionals.
In an interview with Channels TV, Pate outlined the government’s plan to make Nigeria’s healthcare sector appealing enough to encourage the return of expatriate health professionals. He highlighted that, while the Nigerian government might not match the salaries offered in the UK, it is committed to making meaningful improvements.
Pate noted that the economic contexts of Nigeria and the UK are vastly different, affecting salary comparisons. He stressed that the value of working in one’s home country extends beyond monetary compensation, encompassing the broader impact and sense of purpose.
Pate also pointed out that Nigerian health workers abroad are increasingly returning to set up practices, influenced by the government’s policies aimed at revitalizing the healthcare sector. He cited examples of healthcare professionals coming back from the US and the UK to contribute to Nigeria’s health system.
Addressing the issue of economic compensation, Pate assured that while the government might not be able to match international salary standards, it is working on a comprehensive package that includes various non-monetary benefits. He mentioned that recent changes, including the new minimum wage law, will have implications for salary adjustments.
The Minister concluded by emphasizing that the overall goal is to provide a meaningful and supportive environment for healthcare professionals, aligning economic remuneration with the broader objectives of national development and healthcare improvement.
