In a move aimed at strengthening the healthcare sector and improving the welfare of medical professionals, Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has approved a 100 per cent increase in the salaries of medical doctors working in the state’s public healthcare system.
The approval, which is expected to take effect in accordance with government directives, is part of the administration’s broader efforts to address challenges facing the health sector, including the retention of skilled medical personnel, improved service delivery, and the enhancement of healthcare outcomes for residents.
The state government said the decision reflects its commitment to prioritizing healthcare and recognizing the critical role medical practitioners play in safeguarding the wellbeing of citizens.
According to officials, the salary adjustment is expected to boost morale among doctors serving in public hospitals and health facilities across the state while helping to reduce the migration of healthcare professionals to other states and countries in search of better remuneration and working conditions.
Governor Otu noted that healthcare remains one of the key pillars of his administration’s development agenda. He emphasized that investing in the welfare of doctors and other healthcare workers is essential to building a resilient and efficient healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of the population.
The governor acknowledged the sacrifices and dedication of medical practitioners, particularly in the face of increasing healthcare demands, and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to create an enabling environment for health professionals to perform their duties effectively.
The salary increase comes amid growing concerns over the shortage of healthcare workers in many parts of Nigeria, a situation largely attributed to poor remuneration, inadequate infrastructure, and the migration of professionals to foreign countries under the so-called “Japa” phenomenon.
Health sector stakeholders have long advocated improved welfare packages for medical personnel as a strategy to curb brain drain and strengthen healthcare delivery. Analysts believe that better compensation could encourage more doctors to remain within the public healthcare system and improve access to quality medical services for residents.
Medical practitioners and labour representatives in the state have welcomed the development, describing it as a significant step toward addressing longstanding welfare concerns within the profession. Some healthcare workers expressed optimism that the increase would enhance job satisfaction and motivate greater commitment to patient care.
Beyond the salary review, stakeholders have urged the state government to continue investing in hospital infrastructure, medical equipment, staff training, and recruitment to ensure that improvements in welfare translate into better healthcare services for the public.
The approval of the salary increase is expected to position Cross River among states making deliberate efforts to improve conditions for healthcare workers amid increasing competition for medical talent nationwide.
Observers say the move could also serve as a model for other state governments seeking to strengthen their healthcare systems through strategic investments in human resources and workforce retention.
With the latest approval, the Cross River State Government has signaled its determination to place healthcare at the forefront of its development priorities while ensuring that medical professionals receive greater recognition and support for their contributions to public health.
