The Abia State Government has revealed that it has identified certain doctors who, having left state employment in pursuit of opportunities abroad (‘Japa’), are still included on its payroll.
In Umuahia, the state capital, Governor Alex Otti revealed this information during the inaugural Abia State Council on Health held at the International Conference Centre on Thursday.
Speaking on the theme, “Providing an Accessible, Affordable and Quality Healthcare System for the New Abia,” Otti said such doctors are still collecting salaries from the state despite leaving Abia’s employment and now working abroad.
“Furthermore, our ongoing digitalization of the Abia State civil service has uncovered some staff that have left their duty post for greener pastures, yet still receive remuneration from the State government,” he said.
“While the criminality involved in this is going to be addressed by the relevant agencies of government, the important thing here is that we do not have the number of hands that were hitter to report. We are working hard to fill these gaps.”
The governor further announced plans for the recruitment of additional healthcare professionals to fortify the health sector. Governor Otti emphasized the commitment to enhancing primary healthcare, ensuring the adequate staffing of health facilities across the state.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Health, represented by the Permanent Secretary of Abia State Ministry of Health, Dr Ifenyinwa Uma-Kalu, underscored the importance of state governments supporting the federal government by providing essential infrastructure for the healthcare system.
In her remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Ngozi Okoronkwo, characterized the inaugural State Council on Health as a demonstration of Governor Alex Otti’s administration’s dedication to prioritizing developmental initiatives. These initiatives aim to unlock the potential of Abia’s strategic human capital, expediting socio-economic development under the current administration.
Dr. Okoronkwo highlighted the administration’s focus on delivering a healthcare system that caters to the needs of all Abians, regardless of socio-economic status. She emphasized that achieving this goal would set Abia on the path toward Universal Health Coverage for all.