NMA releases N11m endowment fund for ailing doctors in A’Ibom
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has released the sum of over N11m endowment fund for the treatment of five sick members in one year.
Aniekan Peter, NMA chairman in the state, unveiled this while speaking during the Physician Week 2025 dinner on Saturday.
The Physician Week 2025 in the state, which was celebrated from October 19-26, 2025, with the theme “Healthcare As a Value Chain: Building Efficiency From Policy To Patient”, culminated in a dinner night and awards presentation to dedicated physicians in various categories
Peter said, “So far, we have paid over N11m endowment fund to five of our members in one year. When a doctor is sick and unable to fund his treatment, he or she applies to the association for funding, and we release sums ranging from 2 million to 4 million, depending on the severity of the illness.”
The chairman highlighted some of the achievements of his executive committee within the year, including the settlement of CONMESS and promotion arrears for members at the University of Uyo, the resolution of entry-level issues for residents at UUTH, and the award of a scholarship to the brilliant but indigent child of a deceased colleague, among others.
While commending his colleagues for their “dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care for their patients despite obvious challenges, the chairman, however, lamented that the workload had taken a toll on doctors, leading to burnout and exhaustion.
He said, “The NMA AKS wishes to highlight the harsh reality of the work conditions for Nigerian doctors. While a doctor in a developed country may see 20 patients in a day, in Nigeria, it is not uncommon for a doctor to see above 60 patients in a busy clinic. This is a testament to the resilience and dedication of Nigerian doctors who continue to serve despite the challenging circumstances.”
He, however, applauded the governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for recognising the efforts of doctors in the state by increasing their wages and allowances, as well as improving infrastructural facilities.
Also speaking, Tiemah Akpabio, Vice Chairman of the NMA, Akwa Ibom State, urged members to see themselves as the missing link between policy-making and efficient patient care. She further encouraged them to prepare for the revolution in healthcare brought about by Artificial Intelligence, noting that AI would not replace their jobs, but urged all members to be AI-compliant.
She also commended the chapter chairman, Peter, for being at the forefront in championing the welfare of members.
Earlier, Nigerian Medical Association, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, commended Governor Umo Eno for the new salary package approved for medical workers in the state.
The state governor had, during the last executive council meeting, announced an upward review of salaries and special allowances for doctors and other health workers from November 1, 2025.
The gesture is expected to significantly reduce the brain drain phenomenon in the state.
