At the inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) held at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Teaching Hospital in Zaria, Professor Muhammad Bala Audu, President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), made a compelling case for standardized remuneration for doctors in both hospital settings and academic institutions.
Addressing Pay Disparities
Prof. Audu highlighted the significant disparity in salaries between hospital doctors, who are compensated under the Consolidated Medical Salary Scale (CONMESS), and their academic peers, who fall under the Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure (CONUASS). This inconsistency, he argued, undermines the unity and morale of the medical profession.
During his address on “Contemporary Issues in Medical Education: The Role of Career Guidance and Mentorship,” Prof. Audu, who is also the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, emphasized the need for equitable pay structures that reflect the crucial roles both groups play in the healthcare system.
Challenges in Medical Education
The professor pointed out that the rapid increase in student enrollment—without corresponding improvements in infrastructure and equipment—compromises both service delivery and the quality of training provided to future medical professionals. He stressed that addressing these infrastructural challenges is vital for maintaining high educational standards and ensuring that healthcare delivery remains effective.
Advocating for Inclusion and Welfare
In addition to remuneration and infrastructure issues, Prof. Audu raised concerns about the exclusion of medical professionals from leadership roles, specifically the position of vice-chancellor at universities. He urged the federal government to standardize workplace conditions, enhance security, and improve the welfare of medical professionals. These measures, he argued, are essential for fostering a more productive healthcare environment.
Support from Academic Leadership
Representing the Vice-Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Kabir Bala, Prof. Muhammad Shehu praised NAMDA for its alignment with the university’s policies and President Bola Tinubu’s Hope Agenda. He encouraged the association to uphold professionalism and maintain peace as it strives to achieve its objectives, emphasizing the importance of unity in the pursuit of quality medical education and healthcare.
Recognizing Excellence in Service
The event also featured a commendation for Prof. Bello Jamo, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, who was honored with a meritorious award for his excellent service in the healthcare sector. This recognition highlights the importance of dedication and excellence in improving health outcomes within the community.
A Unified Call for Change
Prof. Audu’s call for standardized remuneration and improved working conditions resonates with the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare and academic systems. By advocating for fair pay and better support for medical professionals, he emphasizes the essential role they play in the nation’s health landscape. The discussions held at the NAMDA AGM serve as a vital platform for driving meaningful changes that can enhance the quality of medical education and healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
