Kwara Doctors Raise Concerns Over Low Pay and Heavy Workloads

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in Kwara State has highlighted serious issues affecting doctors in the region, including low pay, illegal salary deductions, and a shortage of medical staff. The association’s chairman, Dr. Suleiman Rotimi, made these comments during a news conference in Ilorin, part of the events for the upcoming Physicians’ Week.

Dr. Rotimi pointed out that doctors in Kwara are among the lowest paid in Nigeria, with some facing monthly salary deductions of up to 50,000 naira. He stated, “The doctors are underpaid, overworked, and over-deducted.” Many doctors are struggling with excessive workloads due to a lack of staff in general hospitals, which forces them to work longer hours to care for patients.

The NMA chairman also raised concerns about the doctor-to-patient ratio in Nigeria, which is about one doctor for over 9,000 patients. This is far from the World Health Organization’s recommendation of one doctor for every 600 patients. The shortage of doctors is particularly severe in some areas of Kwara.

In light of these challenges, the NMA is urging the state government to address issues related to doctors’ pay, outstanding allowances, and working conditions. Dr. Rotimi emphasized that the ongoing disputes not only affect doctors but also the patients who rely on public healthcare services.

Additionally, Dr. Rotimi called for improved mental health support for doctors and safer working environments. He stressed the importance of allowing healthcare professionals to seek help without fear of stigma. He also advocated for the use of technology in healthcare to improve access to services in underserved areas.

The NMA believes that investing in doctors’ training, research opportunities, and hospital infrastructure is essential to prevent the migration of Nigerian doctors abroad. The association is calling for collaboration between the government and other stakeholders to create a healthcare system that supports both doctors and patients.