The Ogun State Government has approved the implementation of the Professional Allowance Table, PAT, and Specialist Allowance for medical doctors working in the state’s public health sector, a move that has been welcomed by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
The Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the NMA, Dr Luqman Ogunjimi, announced the development during a press conference in Abeokuta ahead of the association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference.
According to Ogunjimi, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s approval reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of medical practitioners and strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.
He explained that the Professional Allowance Table is being implemented in line with the Federal Government’s approved remuneration structure for doctors, while payment of the Specialist Allowance commenced in July 2026.
The NMA described the approval as a significant milestone that would improve motivation among doctors, enhance job satisfaction, and encourage the delivery of better healthcare services to residents.
Ogunjimi expressed appreciation to Governor Abiodun for what he described as a responsive and worker-friendly approach to addressing the concerns of medical professionals.
He noted that the association looks forward to continued collaboration with the state government on other welfare issues and policies aimed at strengthening the health sector.
The NMA chairman also raised concerns over the severe shortage of medical personnel in Ogun State.
He disclosed that only about 1,200 doctors are currently serving an estimated population of nine million people, resulting in a doctor-to-patient ratio of roughly one doctor to every 7,500 residents.
He said the situation places enormous pressure on the existing workforce, adding that many of the doctors who remain in the state have resisted the growing trend of emigration despite better opportunities abroad.
He urged authorities to continue prioritising the welfare of healthcare workers as a strategy for retaining skilled professionals and improving healthcare delivery.