Ondo Doctors Threaten Strike Over Poor Welfare, Staffing Crisis Deepens
Oluwatobi Adu 
AKURE, Nigeria – Doctors under the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Ondo State warn of possible industrial action over worsening welfare conditions and staffing shortages.
State chairman Muyiwa Alonge on Monday says failure to implement federal salary adjustments and allowances is placing doctors under severe strain.
“These are not new requests; they are our entitlements,” he states.
The doctors demand implementation of key federal circulars on salary adjustments and accoutrement allowances, alongside payment of outstanding promotion arrears.
Alonge highlights the impact of the “Japa” trend, noting that many doctors have left the system.
“Those of us remaining now do the work of five people,” he says.
He describes working conditions as difficult, citing obsolete equipment and dilapidated facilities.
Doctors warn that continued neglect could further weaken healthcare delivery.
“We are stressed, exhausted and overworked,” Alonge adds.
Despite repeated engagements with the government, the association says no concrete action has been taken.
The NMA gives the state government until April 28 to respond or face possible strike action.
Health experts warn that a strike could disrupt medical services and worsen public health outcomes in the state.
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