AGS NEWS – The Ogun State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced a potential strike within a week due to poor working conditions.

NMA Chairman, Dr. Azim Ashimi, stated at a press conference that the 21-day ultimatum issued on June 7 will expire on June 27, 2024. He urged the state government to address their concerns to avoid industrial action.

Ashimi emphasized that despite ongoing talks with government officials, no official commitments have been made.

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He called on Ogun State citizens to press the government to act promptly to prevent disruptions in healthcare services.

He highlighted the significant increase in operating costs for hospitals, using Babcock University Teaching Hospital’s electricity bill surge from ₦80-100 million to ₦300 million as an example.

Ashimi appealed for concessions to health institutions to prevent these costs from burdening patients.

In addition, Ashimi discussed ongoing cholera sensitization programs in collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Health and media houses.

He provided contact numbers for reporting suspected cholera cases, which will be treated free of charge at designated facilities.

Ashimi also addressed the “Japa Syndrome,” the exodus of healthcare workers from Nigeria, warning that this trend is straining the healthcare system in Ogun State.

He urged the government to resolve salary disparities between state and federal health institutions to prevent further deterioration.

He raised concerns about gambling addiction, comparing its impact to drug addiction, and called for government intervention.

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Ashimi announced a dialogue between the NMA and the media community, led by the NUJ, to improve healthcare reporting and inform the public about the upcoming Elective Annual General Meeting scheduled for August 4-9, 2024.

He thanked supporters for their assistance over the past two years.