Former Ogun Health Commissioner Raises Concern Over Poor Pay for Doctors
The former Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Babatunde Ipaye, has warned that the low pay for medical doctors in Nigeria is unacceptable. He said it could discourage young people from studying medicine.
Speaking on Wednesday after delivering a keynote speech titled “Beyond Crossroads; Unlocking Health System Potential Through Partnership” at the Nigerian Medical Association meeting in Abeokuta, Ipaye said the government must increase funding for the health sector and improve doctors’ welfare. This would reduce frequent strikes and prevent the public from suffering.
He also urged the government to use public-private partnerships to improve healthcare services and provide better care for Nigerians.
Ipaye said, “The pay for doctors in Nigeria is not enough. Listening to what my colleagues earn, I wonder who would want to study medicine. It’s unfair to sacrifice your social and family life to care for others and earn so little.”
He suggested a payment system based on effort, saying, “When people are paid based on their work, there will be no crisis. Poor pay is threatening the future of our profession.”
The NMA Chairman praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for his investment in the health sector but encouraged him to do more to improve healthcare in the state.
Nigeria’s health sector faces many challenges, including a shortage of doctors caused by low pay. Many medical professionals leave for countries like the US and Europe. Despite reforms, the sector still suffers from underfunding, lack of infrastructure, and a “brain drain,” all of which affect the quality of healthcare.
