The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Zamfara State Branch, has expressed concern over the increasing brain drain in the medical sector due to insecurity in the state.
Dr. Ibrahim Jibril, Vice Chairman of the Association, highlighted this issue while briefing the press in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, ahead of the Association’s Scientific Conference.
He noted that many doctors are leaving the state daily because of the high level of insecurity.
The association called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts against banditry, stating that the situation is worsening and has overwhelmed the already fragile health sector in Zamfara State.
They urged the government to revise its strategies in the fight against banditry and consider relocating a significant military command to Zamfara State, Northwest Nigeria, to effectively combat insecurity and restore peace.
Dr. Jibril revealed that ten medical doctors left the state in the past month due to the ongoing security challenges.
“In view of the prevailing security situations in Zamfara and other neighbouring states, we are calling on Federal Government to as a matter of priority intensify the fight against banditry. We want to state categorically that the situation is getting worse by the day and has overwhelmed the already fragile health system in the state.”
“We wish to recommend that the Federal Government change strategy and look at the possibility of moving a significant military operation command to Zamfara State.”
The association commended Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State for repositioning the health sector, with upgrading, renovations and equipping hospitals, especially the Ahmad Yariman Bakura Special Hospital, with modern equipment, which they believe will go a long way towards bringing it back to its original position.
It appreciates Governor Dauda Lawal for setting up a committee, to review the salaries of doctors and other health workers across Zamfara State, Northwest Nigeria
“We wish to acknowledge the giant steps being taken by His Excellency The Executive Governor of Zamfara State to reposition the health sector with recent renovation and upgrade of hospitals in the State.”
“We are particularly happy with the decision of the Government to renovate and equip Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital with modern equipment.”