The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has raised alarm over increase in brain drain in Nigeria and called on governments at all levels to address the problem.
It added that poor welfare and renumeration of members remain the key factors igniting the flught of many medical personnel from Nigeria.
The National Publicity Secretary of NMA, Dr. Aniekeme Uwah stated this over the weekend during the 2021 Correspondents’ Chapel week with the theme, ”Post Covid 19 Economy, and the challenges to Ethical Journalism Ahead of 2023 Elections.”
Uwah also emphasized on the need for governments to make proper budgetary provisions to the health sector to avoid unnecessary strike actions and brain drain that hit the sector now.
“The rate of brain drain in the country is worrisome. I’m afraid what the future holds and the fate of the younger ones. We relate and interact with some of our colleagues who work abroad and we know how much they are paid and how they are being taken care of.
“So many of our colleagues in Nigeria have moved for green pasture abroad and if this is not tackled, the health sector will be highly affected. The only solution is for government to make adequate budgetary provisions so that doctors and other health workers will be motivated and well renumerated.” He said.
Earlier in her welcome address, chairman of the Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Idongesit Ashameri said the daily unfolding negative effects of Covid-19 pandemic on the nation’s economy and survival of journalists have posed a great threat to journalism ethics and practice.
The chairman noted that the goal of the programme was to re-equip members with the capacity to uphold the ethics of the profession amidst economic challenges occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The year’s theme is aimed at sharpening our skills and keeping us within ethically acceptable boundaries for better service delivery and to contribute to nation building.” She said.
