BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has called on Nigerian doctors to consider enlistment in the nation’s Armed Forces as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against terrorism and insurgency, declaring that the military’s Medical Salary Structure (MSS) is more attractive than the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) obtainable in the civil service.
The NMA President, Professor Bala Mohammed Audu, made the call on Friday during a courtesy visit to the 312 Artillery Regiment, Kalapanzi Barracks, Kakuri, Kaduna.
Audu, who commended the Nigerian military for its sacrifices in safeguarding the country, said doctors have a critical role to play in supporting troops on the frontlines, noting that military medicine remains one of the leading areas of medical research globally.
“The troops who put their lives on the line on behalf of every Nigerian also require quality healthcare, even at the frontline and within military facilities. Across the world, the military constitutes one of the foremost research frontiers in medicine,” he stated.
He explained that beyond patriotism, welfare considerations also make military service attractive to medical professionals, stressing that the MSS pay package compares favourably with CONMESS.
The NMA president also expressed concern over the growing wave of medical brain drain, revealing that more than 50,000 Nigerian doctors are currently practising abroad.
“There appear to be more Nigerian doctors outside the shores of this country than within. This reflects the quality of training Nigerian doctors receive, as many foreign countries actively recruit them, sometimes even without applications. However, there is also internal migration within Nigeria, as doctors move to institutions where welfare is better catered for. In this regard, the military deserves commendation”.
Audu particularly praised the medical facility at Kalapanzi Barracks, describing it as exceptional in standard and organisation.
“It is comparable to a five-star hotel. You would hardly believe it is a hospital setting. It is clean, orderly, and structured department by department, creating an environment that immediately inspires wellness. The level of attention given to patients reflects a highly motivated and committed workforce, made possible by strong leadership from the Commanding Officer,” he added.
In his remarks, the Commanding Officer of the 312 Artillery Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel I.J. Ufua, described the visit by the NMA leadership as a rare honour for the unit.
“We are privileged to receive the National President of the NMA, the Second Vice President, and the Kaduna State Chairman. I do not think this unit has previously had such a distinguished delegation. On behalf of the officers and men of this regiment, I warmly welcome you to Kalapanzi Barracks”.
Ufua acknowledged the NMA’s advocacy for ethical leadership and professional healthcare advancement, assuring that the military remains committed to deepening collaboration with the association, particularly as Nigeria continues counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
He added that sustained partnership between the military and medical professionals would enhance healthcare delivery for personnel and contribute significantly to national security efforts.
