NMA FCT raises alarm over doctors’ health, welfare, demands better pay

The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Federal Capital Territory, FCT, chapter, has urged doctors to prioritise their health and well-being by getting adequate rest, sleeping well, eating properly and undergoing regular medical check-ups.

The Chairman of the NMA FCT Chapter, Dr George Ebong, made the call on Tuesday in Abuja during the association’s Physicians’ Week celebration.

Ebong advised medical practitioners against neglecting their health, stressing that they must remain physically and mentally fit to deliver quality healthcare services to Nigerians.

“Thank you. So, the message to doctors at the moment is to find time to take care of themselves, rest, sleep well, eat well, undergo medical tests, and not take their need for rest lightly. They must ensure they are functioning properly to help the medical system,” he said.

He also called on the federal and state governments to provide greater support for doctors across the country to improve healthcare delivery.

“And, of course, we expect the government to do more to provide appropriate support for doctors across the country so that we can deliver proper medical care to the people,” Ebong said.

The NMA FCT chairman further emphasised the need for increased manpower, improved remuneration and professional development programmes to strengthen the healthcare system.

“More hands, better remuneration—we keep talking about these. And, of course, having programmes that will enable doctors to improve their medical expertise so that we can achieve [this],” he added.

Earlier, in his remarks as the guest speaker, the senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, Dr Adebayo Faduyile, urged doctors not to relent in their altruistic efforts to save lives.