Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Pate, recently addressed the ongoing debate about the salaries of health workers, especially in the context of professionals leaving the country for better-paying opportunities abroad.
During an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Dr. Pate acknowledged the significant economic disparity between Nigeria and countries like the UK, which often attracts Nigerian doctors with higher salaries. However, he urged healthcare workers to consider factors beyond financial compensation, emphasizing the importance of contributing to national development.
Dr. Pate highlighted the sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes with serving one’s country, sharing stories of Nigerian doctors who have returned from lucrative careers abroad to establish practices in Nigeria. He noted that these doctors, despite earning less, find value in their contributions to the nation’s healthcare system.
When questioned about the possibility of salary increases for doctors, Dr. Pate referenced President Bola Tinubu’s recent signing of the minimum wage law. He mentioned that a salary committee is currently working on adjustments, but did not provide specific details.
The minister also discussed the broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, including addressing shortages of essential supplies and reindustrializing the sector. He emphasized that while these initiatives will take time, they are part of the government’s commitment to supporting healthcare professionals who choose to remain in Nigeria.
“We’re building an infrastructure,” Dr. Pate said, highlighting the administration’s focus on both monetary and non-monetary mechanisms to enhance the healthcare system and retain talent within the country.