A'Ibom NMA Decries Doctor Shortage, Seeks More Medical Schools

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has raised concerns over the growing shortage of medical personnel in the state, urging the government to establish at least seven medical training institutions to address the widening workforce gap. The association said the current number of medical schools is insufficient to meet the state's healthcare needs and reverse the shortage of doctors and other health professionals.

Speaking during a press briefing in Uyo as part of activities marking the association's Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference, the state NMA Chairman, Professor Aniekan Peter, said the shortage had become evident in recent recruitment exercises. He noted that despite the state government's approval to recruit 400 doctors and 700 nurses, authorities struggled to fill the vacancies because of the limited number of qualified professionals available.

While commending Governor Umo Eno for approving the establishment of a medical school at Akwa Ibom State University, Peter argued that the initiative alone would not adequately address the problem. He urged the government to expand medical education by upgrading existing health facilities into training institutions, saying the state should aim to have at least seven medical schools capable of producing doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals.

The NMA chairman stressed that medical education should be regarded as an investment rather than a burden, noting that expanding training opportunities would not only strengthen the state's healthcare system but also improve access to quality medical services. He added that hospitals in Ikot Ekpene, Eket and the Ibom Specialist Hospital could serve as foundations for additional medical training institutions.

The call comes amid growing concerns over the migration of healthcare professionals from Nigeria and the increasing pressure on the country's health sector. The association believes that expanding medical education and strengthening local training capacity are essential to ensuring a sustainable healthcare workforce in Akwa Ibom State.