The FCT Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA-FCT), in collaboration with the Nasarawa and Kogi states chapters, has called on the Federal Government to reconsider its stance on the “No work no pay” policy for medical workers.

This plea was made during a joint news conference held in Abuja to mark the commencement of the 2023 Annual General Meeting and Scientific conference of the NMA-FCT.

Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi, Chairman of NMA-FCT, criticized the government’s plan, stating that it could exacerbate the already dire state of the healthcare sector.

He emphasized that the ongoing strike by the National Association of Residents Doctors (NARD) was a legitimate demand for their rights and highlighted the need for the government to address the dearth of doctors and incentivize them to remain in the country.

Dr. Ugwuanyi also stressed the importance of prioritizing the safety of healthcare workers and expressed condolences to the Lagos State Government for the tragic loss of a young doctor due to a lift malfunction.

Dr. Peter Attah, Chairman of the Committee of State Chairmen of NMA, echoed the concerns, stating that the proposed policy could undermine healthcare service delivery rather than improve it.