Council approves salary increase for medical doctors to curb migration
Fuad Atanda-Lawal, the Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area in Lagos, has made an impactful decision by approving a significant pay raise of 100 per cent for the medical doctors working at primary health centers within the council area.
Announcing this positive development on Thursday, Atanda-Lawal highlighted the importance of ensuring that all residents in the council have access to high-quality and affordable healthcare.
The pay raise is set to take effect from February 2024, with the aim of addressing the current issue of brain drain in the nation’s health sector, also known as ‘japa’.
Expressing his confidence in the capabilities of Nigerian doctors on a global scale, the chairman emphasised the necessity of providing them with the right incentives to excel.
This decision coincides with the construction of a modern primary health center, which will cater to a larger population within the community.
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Atanda-Lawal reaffirmed the council’s commitment to align with the efforts of President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwolu in delivering accessible and top-quality healthcare to all citizens.
By investing in the healthcare professionals, the council aims to contribute towards achieving this important goal.
Earlier in January, Dr. Eniayewun Ademuyiwa, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, expressed concerns about the increasing strain on government-owned hospitals due to the mass exodus of health workers seeking better opportunities abroad, commonly referred to as ‘japa’.
The shortage of healthcare personnel in federal facilities has led to a rise in the number of patients seeking treatment at state hospitals across Lagos.
In a related development, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors reported that a significant number, 1,417 members, had relocated overseas in search of better prospects last year.
This trend emphasizes the importance of initiatives like the pay raise approved by Chairman Atanda-Lawal, which aims to provide a conducive environment for healthcare professionals to thrive within the country.
