The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Akwa Ibom State has voiced serious concerns regarding the welfare of doctors in the state, particularly those serving at the Ibom Specialist Hospital. Dr. Aniekan Peter, the state chairman of the NMA, has publicly warned the state government of impending strike action if their demands are not met. The core issue revolves around the disparity in salaries at the Ibom Specialist Hospital, with the NMA calling for an urgent review and harmonization of the salary structure. Dr. Peter emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the NMA is prepared to issue an ultimatum to Governor Umo Eno’s administration if a committee is not established promptly to address this pressing issue. This call for action highlights the growing discontent among medical professionals in the state and foreshadows potential disruptions to healthcare services if the government fails to respond adequately.
The NMA’s concerns extend beyond the Ibom Specialist Hospital. Dr. Peter also pointed to the deteriorating condition of St. Luke Hospital, Anua, a facility managed by the Catholic Church. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the Church’s management of the hospital and suggested that if they are unable to effectively maintain and operate the facility, they should relinquish control to the state government. This statement reflects the NMA’s commitment to ensuring quality healthcare services across the state, regardless of the managing entity. Furthermore, the NMA chairman advocated for a substantial 100% salary increment for all doctors in the state, citing the need to motivate and retain medical professionals within Akwa Ibom. He drew a comparison to the administration of former Governor Godswill Akpabio, during which doctors received car incentives, a benefit that has since been discontinued. This appeal to reinstate such incentives, particularly given Governor Eno’s affiliation with the same political party as the Senate President, underscores the NMA’s strategic approach in advocating for its members’ welfare.
The NMA’s agenda encompasses more than just doctors’ welfare; it also prioritizes public health initiatives, specifically tackling the high rates of maternal and child mortality in Akwa Ibom State. Recognising Nigeria’s unfortunate global ranking as the worst place to give birth, the NMA has launched a statewide sensitization campaign. This campaign, conducted through churches across all 31 local government areas, aims to educate the populace about maternal health, the availability of ambulance services, and the benefits of enrolling in the state’s health insurance scheme. This proactive approach demonstrates the NMA’s commitment to community health and its recognition of the crucial role of public awareness in improving health outcomes.
The NMA’s campaign addresses critical knowledge gaps within the community. Dr. Peter highlighted the widespread lack of awareness regarding available ambulance services and the state health insurance scheme. This lack of information hinders access to essential healthcare services and contributes to the high maternal and child mortality rates. To combat this, the NMA has partnered with the state Ministry of Health to intensify the sensitization efforts, beginning with pilot programs in Oron and Ikono before expanding to cover all 31 local government areas. This strategic rollout underscores the NMA’s commitment to a comprehensive and impactful outreach program.
The NMA’s efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality underline the urgency of the situation. Dr. Peter emphasized the stark reality that women in Nigeria face a disproportionately high risk of death during childbirth, with Akwa Ibom State being among the worst-affected regions within the country. The NMA’s campaign stresses the fundamental right of women to safe childbirth and highlights the tragic consequences of inadequate healthcare access. By promoting health insurance enrolment and raising awareness about available services, the NMA aims to empower women and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare, ultimately contributing to a reduction in preventable deaths.
In summary, the NMA’s actions in Akwa Ibom State represent a multifaceted approach to improving healthcare. Their advocacy for better welfare for doctors, including salary harmonization and the reinstatement of incentives, aims to retain skilled medical professionals within the state. Concurrently, their public health campaign, focused on reducing maternal and child mortality, addresses a critical public health challenge through community engagement and education. The NMA’s unwavering commitment to both doctors’ well-being and public health underscores their crucial role in shaping a healthier future for Akwa Ibom State. Their willingness to issue ultimatums to the government highlights the seriousness of their concerns and their determination to achieve meaningful change. The success of their efforts will ultimately depend on the responsiveness of the state government and the active participation of the community in embracing the message of improved healthcare access and utilization.
