NMA South-South caucus declares support for NARD strike, urges Nigerian govt to fix health sector
The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, South-South Caucus, has declared support for the ongoing indefinite strike by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, NARD.
The association also called on the Federal Government and leaders across the region to urgently tackle the persistent welfare and structural problems confronting the nation’s health sector.
Speaking at a press conference, Chairman of the NMA South-South Caucus, Dr. Diamond Tamunokuro, said the association’s position aligns with that of resident doctors nationwide, who withdrew their services over unpaid arrears, unsafe working conditions, and delayed promotions.
“It is sad that this strike comes at a time when retaining and motivating healthcare workers has become extremely difficult due to the Japa syndrome,” Dr. Tamunokuro said.
“Nigeria’s doctor-to-patient ratio currently stands at one doctor to 10,000 patients — far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation of one to 600.”
In a communiqué issued after its meeting in Calabar, the NMA South-South expressed concern that poor remuneration, insecurity, bad road networks, multiple taxation, and high electricity tariffs continue to drive medical professionals out of the country.
The association warned that the nation’s health sector faces imminent collapse if urgent action is not taken.
It therefore called on President Bola Tinubu, the Senate President, members of the National Assembly from the South-South, the six South-South governors, and other stakeholders to intervene and address the demands of the striking doctors.
“We call on all tiers of government and well-meaning Nigerians to step in and resolve the issues at stake. The negative impact of this strike on healthcare delivery across the country cannot be overemphasized,” the statement read.
While commending South-South governors for their efforts in improving healthcare delivery and doctors’ welfare, the NMA urged them to do more to curb brain drain and improve healthcare infrastructure to retain medical personnel.
The association also highlighted the poor state of road networks across the region, stressing that good roads are essential for efficient healthcare delivery and emergency response.
“A good road network will make it easier for doctors to perform their duties and respond promptly to emergencies,” the statement added.
Dr. Tamunokuro commended medical professionals across the region for their resilience and continued service despite difficult working conditions.
The statement was jointly signed by Dr. Diamond Tamunokuro (Chairman, NMA South-South Caucus), Dr. Osoma Smith (Secretary, NMA South-South Caucus), Dr. Aniekon Peter (Chairman, NMA Akwa Ibom), Dr. Izibeya Wilcox (Chairman, NMA Bayelsa), Dr. Ezoke Epoke (Chairman, NMA Cross River), Dr. Israel Adaigho (Chairman, NMA Delta), and Dr. Eustace Osaghele (Chairman, NMA Edo).
