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NMA Raises Red Flag Over Brain Drain, Blasts New Wage Circular as “Punishment for Loyalty”
Gombe, Nigeria — July 22, 2025

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Gombe State chapter, has sounded a stark warning over an impending surge in the brain drain crisis plaguing the country’s health sector, blaming a controversial new wage circular for further demoralizing frontline medical personnel.

In a scathing communique issued after an emergency virtual meeting, the state chapter condemned the June 27 circular from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission — referenced SWC/S/04/S.218/111/648 — describing it as “unjust, demoralising, and a betrayal of trust.”

“This circular is a blatant disregard for the sacrifices of doctors who have chosen to stay and serve this country under extremely harsh and under-resourced conditions,” the statement read. “Rather than incentivise commitment, it punishes loyalty.”

The communique, signed by Dr. Ahmad Adamu-Girbo, Chairman, and Dr. Lembi Samuel, Secretary of the Gombe NMA, criticised the unilateral review of allowances for Medical and Dental Officers in the Federal Public Service, saying it violates existing Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and lacks stakeholder engagement.

“Best Brains Are Leaving”
The NMA noted that the policy shift would deepen the exodus of medical talent, which has already reached alarming levels. The association argued that poor remuneration, inconsistent policy implementation, and failure to honour agreements are major drivers of the mass migration of Nigerian doctors to foreign countries.

“Every time the government backtracks on its promises, it drives more of our best brains outside the country,” the group warned. “The loss is not just in numbers – it is in skill, experience, and the hope that anything can be fixed here.”

Support for National Ultimatum
The Gombe NMA expressed its full backing for the 21-day ultimatum issued earlier by the national leadership of the NMA, warning that industrial action could be imminent if the circular is not withdrawn.

“We are aligned with the national leadership and ready to comply with any lawful actions necessary to defend the dignity of our profession,” the communique added.

Local Disparities Worsening Brain Drain
Beyond the federal policies, the association also criticised the Gombe State Government for failing to implement past reviews of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS). They noted that the increasing wage gap between federal and state-employed doctors is worsening internal migration and weakening the state’s health system.

“The gap between federal and state health workers’ earnings is growing dangerously wide,” it said. “This internal disparity is fueling localised brain drain, with many doctors abandoning state hospitals for better-paying federal institutions – or leaving the country altogether.”

The association urged the Gombe State Government to immediately implement the overdue CONMESS reviews and prevent what they described as the looming collapse of the already strained public healthcare system.

Final Word: “This Is About Survival”
Despite the grim outlook, the Gombe NMA commended the national body, particularly the National Officers’ Committee led by Prof. Bala Audu, for standing firm in defence of medical professionals nationwide.

“This is not just about allowances. It’s about halting the silent migration that is bleeding our healthcare system dry,” said Dr. Adamu-Girbo. “We are resolute in our mission to restore the dignity, nobility, and rightful entitlements of medical professionals in this country.”

The statement concluded with a call for solidarity among medical professionals and a reaffirmation of their commitment to sustained advocacy until justice and equity are restored.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna