By Ado Salisu
The Nigerian Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has urged young medical practitioners to prioritise professional development and carefully consider the decision to migrate abroad in search of better opportunities.
The Chairman of the NMA in Kano State, Dr Abubakar Nagoma Usman, made the call during Young Doctors’ Day, organised as part of activities marking the association’s Physicians Week at Minjibir Park, Kano.
Dr Usman said young doctors had a significant role to play in improving healthcare delivery across the country, stressing the need for them to develop their skills and contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s health system.
He acknowledged the challenges confronting the health sector but said the association, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, was working to improve healthcare services and address existing shortcomings.
NMA Calls for Improved Welfare to Address Doctors’ Emigration
The NMA chairman called on the government to take concrete steps to improve doctors’ welfare and working conditions, noting that better support would help address the factors driving medical professionals to seek opportunities abroad.
He added that the association’s leadership would continue to mentor young doctors, providing guidance and support to help them achieve their professional goals.
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In his remarks, the Chairman of the Physicians Week Committee, Dr Tijjani Garba Magashi, urged young medical practitioners to remain patriotic and committed to their responsibilities.
Magashi commended doctors for their contributions to saving lives and improving public health, expressing optimism that their dedication to service would be rewarded.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of cash prizes of N200,000, N100,000 and N50,000 to the winner, first runner-up and second runner-up, respectively, in an essay-writing competition.
The NMA leadership also announced the composition of a committee for young doctors to strengthen communication, coordination and support for early-career medical practitioners.