September 20, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has identified poor welfare and remuneration of members as the key factors igniting the human capital flight in Nigeria, calling on governments at all levels to address the problem as soon as possible.
It 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 National Publicity Secretary of NMA, Dr. Aniekeme Uwah identified the issue at the weekend in an occasion marking the 2021 correspondents’ chapel week held at the Emerald event centre Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital with the theme, ”Post Covid 19 Economy, and the challenges to Ethical Journalism Ahead of 2023 Elections.”
“The rate of brain drain in the country is worrisome. I’m afraid of 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 the government to make adequate budgetary provisions so that doctors and other health workers will be motivated and well remunerated.” He stated.
Earlier in her welcome address, the state 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,
