# Nigerian medical workforce welfare and staffing crisis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nigerian-medical-workforce-welfare-and-staffing-crisis
> Updated: 2026-10-19T18:55:31.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 2.

Medical professionals in Nigeria continue to face significant welfare and staffing challenges. The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) previously issued an ultimatum to the federal government regarding remuneration, career progression, and manpower shortages.

During the 2026 Physicians’ Week, various branches of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)—including those in Abia, Ondo, Kogi, Cross River, Kaduna, Bauchi, Ogun, and Kwara—issued urgent calls for improved doctor welfare and healthcare infrastructure. Workforce attrition due to migration remains a critical issue. In Ondo State, the NMA reported that approximately 400 doctors have left public health facilities over the last five years, leaving roughly 500 practitioners. In Kaduna State, the number of licensed doctors declined from 2,000 to 1,600.

Key grievances include low remuneration, inadequate medical equipment, and unauthorized salary deductions. In Kwara State, doctors reported monthly deductions of up to 50,000 naira despite owed allowances. These conditions have led to increased workloads, burnout, and concerns regarding patient safety. To address these issues, the NMA is advocating for digital health investments, such as telemedicine, alongside better staffing and mental health support.

Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi warned that the exodus of experienced specialists threatens the national medical education system. He proposed that the Federal Government negotiate bilateral agreements with wealthier nations to secure financial compensation for the cost of training doctors who subsequently migrate abroad.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: Nigeria medical professionals warn of brain drain and poor welfare

Nigerian medical associations are warning of a severe healthcare crisis driven by doctor migration, low pay, and poor working conditions, calling for urgent welfare reforms and digital health investment.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigerian-medical-association-warns-of-doctor-shortages-and-poor-welfare

### 2026-09-27: National Association of Resident Doctors issues two-week ultimatum to Nigerian government

Nigeria's National Association of Resident Doctors has given the government a two-week ultimatum to address welfare and salary concerns or face a strike, amid discussions regarding a N308 million refund.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/national-association-of-resident-doctors-issues-two-week-ultimatum-to-nigerian-government

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Cite as: Nigerian medical workforce welfare and staffing crisis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nigerian-medical-workforce-welfare-and-staffing-crisis