Ondo NMA chapter rejects FG’s proposal on doctors’ allowances

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ondo State chapter, has rejected the Federal Government’s proposal to review the allowances of medical and dental officers working in federal institutions.

The position was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting held in Akure, the state capital. It was jointly signed by the association’s chairman, Dr. Alonge Olumuyiwa, and secretary, Dr. Olaopa Gideon.

The NMA raised alarm over a circular from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, describing the proposed review as ill-timed and detrimental to the already fragile healthcare sector.

“The circular has sparked deep concern among healthcare professionals,” the communiqué stated. “It comes at a time when the sector is already battling a critical manpower shortage due to the ongoing brain drain known as the ‘japa’ trend.”

The association noted that those who remain in the country are overburdened by increasing workloads, poor remuneration, and unfavorable working conditions, which continue to hamper morale and service delivery.

It added that the move would further discourage healthcare professionals and worsen the existing challenges facing the medical profession, including outstanding salary arrears.

Following a comprehensive assessment, the Ondo NMA declared its total rejection of the proposal and pledged full support for the National Officers Committee of the NMA in its negotiations with the Federal Government.

The association also called for the implementation of a uniform salary and allowance structure across federal and state ministries, private health facilities, universities, and for house officers.