Governor Dapo Abiodun approves professional and specialist allowances for Ogun doctors

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State approved the implementation of the Professional Allowance Table (PAT) and a Specialist Allowance for doctors in the state’s public health sector. Payments for the Specialist Allowance began in July 2026, and the PAT is being applied in line with the federal government’s pay structure. Dr. Luqman Ogunjimi, chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), announced the decision at a press conference in Abeokuta ahead of the NMA’s 2026 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference. The NMA welcomed the move, saying it will improve doctors’ morale, retain staff, and enhance healthcare delivery.

The association highlighted the severe shortage of medical personnel in Ogun, noting that only about 1,200 doctors serve an estimated nine‑million residents—a ratio of roughly one doctor per 7,500 people. The NMA stated the state would need between 5,000 and 10,000 doctors to provide adequate services and urged continued government focus on healthcare workers’ welfare.