In a move aimed at bolstering healthcare infrastructure and retaining skilled medical professionals, the chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos, Fuad Atanda-Lawal, has announced a substantial pay raise for medical doctors associated with all primary health centers within the council area.

The decision to increase doctors’ salaries by 100% was disclosed today following extensive deliberations, underscoring the council’s commitment to providing comprehensive, quality, and affordable healthcare services to all residents.

The pay raise, scheduled to take effect from February 2024, is a testament to Atanda-Lawal’s determination to confront the prevalent issue of brain drain in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. By offering competitive incentives, the chairman aims to retain skilled medical professionals, preventing talent loss to other regions or countries and fostering a sustained dedication to national healthcare.

Atanda-Lawal expressed unwavering confidence in Nigeria’s doctors, asserting that with appropriate incentives, they possess the capability to compete globally, thus contributing significantly to the nation’s healthcare landscape.

The announcement aligns with the commencement of the construction of a modern primary health center, designed to cater to a larger segment of the community.

Atanda-Lawal reiterated the council’s unwavering support for the healthcare initiatives of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwolu, affirming the council’s commitment to delivering quality and affordable healthcare services to all citizens.

This decision holds significant importance in the face of escalating inflation rates, serving as a strategic response to the economic challenges confronting healthcare professionals. The substantial pay increase mitigates the adverse effects of inflation on their income, ensuring financial stability and fostering motivation among medical practitioners within the council area.

In essence, the authorization of a 100% salary hike for primary health center doctors by Atanda-Lawal represents a pivotal step towards addressing brain drain, enhancing healthcare delivery, and fortifying the resilience of Nigeria’s healthcare workforce in the wake of economic uncertainties.