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See Reasons NMA Condemns FG’s Plan to Send Doctors to Saint Lucia

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 3rd, 2025.

See Reasons NMA Condemns FG’s Plan to Send Doctors to Saint Lucia

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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s recent initiative to deploy Nigerian doctors to Saint Lucia, criticizing it as a move that prioritizes foreign diplomacy over the pressing needs of healthcare professionals at home.

In a statement signed by its Secretary General, Dr. Ben Egbo, the NMA described the decision as a troubling contradiction, highlighting that while Nigeria is grappling with a critical shortage of doctors and deteriorating healthcare infrastructure, the government appears more focused on enhancing its global image than addressing local medical challenges.

Dr. Egbo emphasized that Nigerian doctors continue to face significant hardship — from poor salaries and delayed payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to the non-implementation of crucial welfare agreements. He also cited dangerous working conditions and the inconsistent application of the CONMESS salary structure, all of which have contributed to a wave of emigration among health professionals.

“These conditions are taking a serious toll on our doctors, leading to burnout, chronic illnesses, and even death — outcomes that further undermine public health,” the association noted.

The NMA also raised concerns over the stark pay disparity, revealing that Nigerian doctors deployed to Saint Lucia will earn up to ₦131.7 million annually, compared to just ₦11.9 million for those who remain in Nigeria. Even those serving abroad under this initiative will still earn significantly less than their foreign-based counterparts.

“We support global collaboration in healthcare,” the NMA said, “but it is both unfair and unethical to offer five times the pay to doctors going abroad while ignoring the plight of those serving Nigerians at home.”

The association issued a 21-day ultimatum to the government, demanding urgent action. Key requests include the withdrawal of a controversial NSIWC circular, fulfillment of all outstanding agreements and allowances, correction of pay disparities, and the restoration of respect for doctors’ professional rights and working conditions.

The NMA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to international cooperation, but stressed that such efforts must not come at the expense of the health sector’s integrity or the well-being of its workforce.