Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has announced an increase in the monthly salaries and allowances of newly recruited medical doctors in the state, from N150,000 to N500,000.
Nwifuru made the announcement on Monday in Abakaliki during the inauguration of the state’s health activation programme, which was in preparation for the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) scheme.
He also took the opportunity to inaugurate hospital equipment worth billions of naira.
The governor emphasised that doctors deserved higher pay to help them perform at their best and support their families.
“I came across an analysis on social media regarding the inadequacy of the N150,000 salaries and allowances for doctors.
“After issuing questionnaires, I found that the analysis was valid and action needed to be taken,” he explained.
Nwifuru highlighted the high cost of living, noting that doctors working in areas like Ivo Local Government Area spent significant amounts on fuel.
“A doctor working in Ivo, for example, needs about 20 liters of fuel daily. If you multiply that for 28 days, you’ll see the real cost,” he said.
He acknowledged the challenges of the medical profession, sharing that he had initially considered becoming a doctor but opted out after struggling with organic chemistry.
“Doctors deserve more. I have decided that their salaries and allowances should be a minimum of N500,000 monthly, and this applies only to newly recruited doctors,” he stated.
The governor urged doctors to make use of the accommodation provided in various local government areas to reduce living costs.
He also directed the state’s Commissioner for Health to expedite the completion of the quarters, ensuring they were conducive to habitation.
“Living at the various localities will help doctors save costs and avoid distractions from their families,” Nwifuru added.
Dr Moses Ekuma, the state’s Commissioner for Health, lauded the governor for procuring the new medical equipment, assuring that they would be used effectively.
“The procurement of this equipment will complement the availability of modern health facilities and a motivated workforce in the state,” he said.
Mrs Jioke Chinwendu, the Executive Secretary of the State Drug Management Agency, also pledged the agency’s commitment to ensure the consistent availability of drugs in health facilities across the state.
