Dutse, Nigeria The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has sounded a warning over the mass resignation of medical doctors from Jigawa State’s public health sector, citing poor remuneration and bureaucratic delay as major causes.
Speaking at a press briefing in Dutse on Monday, Dr. Usman Haruna, Chairman of the NMA in Jigawa, revealed that no fewer than 300 doctors have exited the state’s medical service between February and July 2025.
“Jigawa State is losing its best-trained professionals to neighboring states and federal health institutions offering better salaries under the CONMESS structure,” Haruna said. “This hemorrhage of talent threatens the very foundation of our state’s healthcare system.”
According to Haruna, the alarming trend is directly linked to the non-submission of a critical report by the state’s salary review committee. The committee, inaugurated over five months ago following a directive from Governor Umar Namadi, was tasked with aligning Jigawa doctors’ pay with the national standard and correcting disparities in entry points, hazard allowances, and call duty payments.
Despite the governor’s clear mandate for the committee to deliver its findings within two weeks, Haruna noted that it has failed to report back, causing growing frustration among healthcare workers and further accelerating the brain drain.
“The committee allegedly concluded its assignment long ago but has refused to present the report to the governor. This failure is eroding doctors’ confidence and could undermine the administration’s notable gains in the healthcare sector,” he said.
While applauding Governor Namadi for his healthcare transformation agenda, the NMA called for urgent action to stem the tide of resignations and restore confidence among health professionals serving in the state.
“We appeal to the governor to intervene once again and ensure the swift implementation of a salary structure that retains talent and ensures the sustainability of healthcare services in Jigawa,” Haruna added.
The NMA warned that continued inaction could further cripple the state’s health institutions, leaving rural communities especially vulnerable.
