Nigerian Medical Association Warns of Healthcare Brain Drain, Calls for Uniform Salary Structure to Retain Talent
October 28, 2024
The Ondo State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has raised concerns over the growing brain drain in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, highlighting the urgent need for better welfare policies to retain medical talent. The NMA is calling for the uniform implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) at all healthcare levels to address the situation.
During a press conference held on Monday as part of the annual Physicians’ Week in Ondo State, NMA Chairman Dr. Olumuyiwa Alonge expressed worry over the exodus of healthcare professionals, describing it as “a consequence of a system that has failed to offer fair compensation and career fulfilment.” According to Dr. Alonge, fair remuneration not only acknowledges the value of healthcare professionals but also fosters commitment and dedication to patient care.
This year’s Physicians’ Week, themed “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare System,” also includes discussions on managing infectious diseases and early breast cancer detection.
“We urge all levels of government to ensure the uniform implementation of our salary structure, the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), across all healthcare levels,” Dr. Alonge said, emphasizing that consistent pay standards are essential to retaining skilled professionals within Nigeria.
In addition, he called on authorities to expedite the payment of outstanding arrears related to salary upgrades, including those due under the new minimum wage. Dr. Alonge pointed out that Ondo State, like many others, has been affected by a steady departure of highly skilled healthcare workers seeking better career opportunities overseas.
“This mass exodus, known as brain drain, is not merely a symptom of individual decisions; it is a consequence of a system that has failed to offer compensation and career fulfilment,” he stated.
The NMA’s appeal reflects a pressing need for reforms to halt the talent drain and bolster the healthcare system’s resilience amid ongoing challenges.
