Dr. Peter Odili, former governor of Rivers State and current Pro-chancellor of Pamo University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), has urged the federal government to review the remuneration packages of medical doctors and other healthcare workers across Nigeria to curb the ongoing brain drain in the sector.
Speaking on Monday in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, during the induction and oath-taking ceremony for 65 newly graduated medical professionals from PUMS, Odili emphasized the urgent need for improved compensation.
He also advocated for the government to invest in the continuous professional development of healthcare workers to ensure effective management of local health institutions.
The oath-taking was administered by Professor Fatima Kyari, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Odili commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s proactive measures aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“Madam Registrar, I want to take this moment, through you as a liaison to the federal government, to express our gratitude to President Tinubu for the courageous steps taken to reform the health sector, which are already showing promising results. We applaud his efforts,” Odili remarked.
He added, “We strongly encourage the president to prioritize the education and training of health professionals, as they are fundamental to the nation’s wellbeing. After all, a healthy population is the foundation of a prosperous country.”
Highlighting the university’s impact, Odili noted that since its establishment nearly eight years ago, PUMS has produced over 330 healthcare professionals who have contributed to Nigeria’s medical workforce.
He further suggested that if other institutions across the nation could replicate this level of output, the country would significantly reduce the exodus of health workers seeking opportunities abroad.
Professor Smith Jaja, the Acting Vice Chancellor of PUMS, revealed that the current batch of graduates were the first to complete their clinical training at the newly established Pamo Teaching Hospital, ensuring they received top-tier practical experience.
Jaja also expressed gratitude to Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for providing scholarships to outstanding state indigenes, enabling them to pursue their medical careers through the university.
