The Ogun State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to introduce tax rebates and address pending salary structure issues in order to curb the continued exodus of doctors from the state’s public health system.
The association made the appeal on Tuesday during a press conference in Abeokuta, as part of activities marking its 2025 Annual General Meeting themed ‘Leveraging on Technology to Drive Medical Practice in the Era of Dwindling Medical Personnel.’
Speaking at the event, the state chairman of the NMA, Dr Luqman Ogunjimi, commended the state government for aligning remuneration of state-employed doctors with federal standards and for the release of residency training funds for 2024 and 2025.
However, Ogunjimi said the challenge of internal brain drain remained a pressing concern due to unfavourable tax conditions and delayed implementation of other key demands.
“It took over 16 months of consistent agitation before the state government approved salary parity with federal counterparts,” he said.
“By then, many of our members had already moved to better-paying federal institutions or other states. While we appreciate the eventual approval, we are now faced with high taxation, which is discouraging retention of our medical professionals.”
He added that some states in Nigeria have introduced tax relief for healthcare workers to stem the tide of brain drain and urged Ogun State to adopt a similar approach.
“We are not saying doctors should be exempted from tax, but the current deductions are excessive. If not addressed, it will continue to drive away our health workers,” Ogunjimi noted.
The NMA also called on the state government to resolve outstanding consequential adjustments arising from the national minimum wage implementation.
Ogunjimi stressed the need to properly place doctors on the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), urging the state to correct administrative lapses that still prevent newly recruited doctors from starting on CONHESS 3, as agreed.
“Though the financial implementation has begun, administrative irregularities persist. It is critical that all doctors are placed on the correct salary level,” he said.
He further highlighted issues surrounding the contributory pension scheme, describing it as uncertain and demoralising for many government employees, including doctors.
“We align with other labour unions in Ogun State on the need for proper remittance and clarity on the pension scheme. Our members need assurance that their post-retirement life will not be jeopardised,” he said.
Ogunjimi also used the occasion to appreciate Babcock University Teaching Hospital for what he described as “commendable efforts in ensuring appropriate remuneration” for doctors under its employment.
On welfare, the NMA chairman reaffirmed the association’s commitment to defending its members’ rights and warned against any form of harassment or cyberbullying.
“NMA Ogun State will not tolerate any form of assault — physical or online — against our members. We will not hesitate to take legal action when necessary,” he warned.
Despite the challenges, Ogunjimi assured the public of the commitment of doctors who have chosen to remain in the state, stating that about 500 doctors currently work with the state government and another 500 are employed at federal teaching institutions within the state.
“This number is still below the required doctor-to-patient ratio for optimal healthcare delivery, but we remain committed. For many of us, Ogun State is home, and we are staying to serve the people,” he concluded.
The NMA chairman also extended appreciation to the state executive committee and the association’s members for their support during his tenure, pledging continued dedication to their welfare and professional advancement.
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