The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Ogun State has issued a strike warning, citing poor working conditions for health practitioners in the state. Dr. Kunle Ashimi, the NMA state chairman, made this announcement during a press conference at Doctors’ House in Abeokuta on Thursday.
The association gave the state government a 21-day ultimatum on June 7, 2024, set to expire on June 27, 2024. Dr. Ashimi emphasised that unless immediate action is taken to address their concerns, industrial harmony cannot be guaranteed after this date.
Despite ongoing discussions with government officials, the NMA reports that no official commitments have been made beyond verbal assurances. The association is calling on Ogun State citizens to urge the government to take the necessary actions to prevent a strike.
In addition to work conditions, the NMA raised concerns about the recent increase in electricity tariffs and its impact on healthcare costs. Dr. Ashimi highlighted that some health institutions are facing significant increases in operating costs due to higher electricity bills. For instance, Babcock University Teaching Hospital reported that its monthly electricity bill has tripled from approximately 80–100 million naira to 300 million naira.
The NMA is appealing for concessions to be made for health institutions regarding electricity tariffs. They argue that without such measures, the increased costs will inevitably be passed on to patients, potentially limiting access to appropriate healthcare services for many.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Ogun State government to see how they will respond to the doctors’ demands and avert a potential healthcare crisis in the state.
