The Federal Government has directed federal teaching hospitals to expedite their recruitment of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, to avert a potential shortage in the healthcare workforce.
This was disclosed by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, during a meeting with representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors headed by its national president, Dr. Dele Abdullahi.
Reaffirming its dedication to enhancing the well-being and safety of medical personnel, the government also committed to upgrading all government-operated healthcare facilities across the country.
The meeting emphasized the urgent need to resolve several ongoing issues, including those inherited from the previous administration.
Key concerns raised by the association encompassed inadequate compensation, delayed allowance payments, insufficient training funds, problems with the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, poor working conditions, and security threats, particularly highlighted by a recent incident at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Lokoja, Kogi State.
In response, the minister expressed her appreciation for the association’s collaborative spirit and acknowledged their recognition of the government’s accomplishments in specific areas, highlighting the positive outcomes from their partnership.
“I had earlier heard about some of your concerns raised, and of which I deemed very serious. I share in your concerns and I am here to let you know that the government is poised to improve your standard, believing that when you are treated well, those who left our country will return, because Nigeria is the best place to stay.
” I believe that strike is the last option. That is why I wouldn‘t want to wait till strike notice is issued.
“I have heard what you have said. The good thing is that we have been very cooperative, and I will reach out to my colleagues whose offices fall within the duties of certain issues you have raised. So that we will know how to fast-track solutions.
“I am glad that you acknowledged some of the areas the Ministry of Health has addressed and how they have been ‘proactive.’ I am promising you that we have a government that is responsible and proactive. Our President is committed and pushes us to ensure that we do not leave the situation of things the way we met them,” she said.
