The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kwara State branch, has urged the state government to introduce scholarships, low-interest loans, and other incentives to attract and retain doctors in public health facilities.
Dr. Ayinde Musa, Acting Vice Chairman of the NMA, made the appeal on Thursday in Ilorin while speaking with reporters.
Musa was reacting to concerns raised by the state government over the shortage of medical doctors across its healthcare facilities.
He said addressing the dearth of doctors and the ongoing ‘Japa’ syndrome required urgent investment in healthcare infrastructure and improved welfare packages.
“To tackle the shortage of doctors, the state government must improve healthcare infrastructure and provide remuneration and incentives that can compete with what is obtainable in Western countries,” Musa said.
He called on the government to renovate and expand medical facilities to enhance service delivery and improve working conditions for health professionals.
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The NMA vice chairman also advised the state to engage key stakeholders in the health sector to develop sustainable solutions to the manpower challenge.
“Many doctors currently work with private organisations within the state and can be persuaded to join the public sector if offered attractive welfare packages,” he added.
Musa emphasised that offering benefits such as scholarships, low-interest loans, and professional development opportunities would make public service more appealing to medical practitioners.
“These efforts will discourage medical professionals from seeking greener pastures abroad and motivate them to contribute meaningfully to Kwara’s healthcare sector,” he said.
