Resident doctors have Governor Chukwuma Soludo, for his commitment to the welfare, professional development and specialist training of doctors in the state.
The National President of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Dr. Muhammad Usman Suleiman, gave the commendation during an official visit to Anambra State, where he led a delegation, including the President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Dr. Joy Okwumuo, on a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike.
Suleiman said Governor Soludo was the first governor in the country to implement the revised salary structure for resident doctors following the Federal Government’s adjustment.
He also said Anambra State was currently paying the highest Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) compared with other state governments and the Federal Government.
According to him, the MRTF is critical to the specialist training of doctors, as it enables them to acquire the knowledge and skills required to provide quality healthcare services.
Suleiman noted that adequate funding for residency training would also encourage doctors to remain committed to their professional development and service to patients.
The NARD president further commended the governor’s investment in health infrastructure, particularly the Trauma Centre at COOUTH, Amaku, Awka, the ongoing accreditation of departments at the teaching hospital and the construction of the Universal Health Centre at the University of Medical Sciences.
Suleiman also praised the governor’s intervention following the recent assault on a medical doctor in the state, which resulted in an apology and compensation for the affected doctor.
He described the Anambra case as a reference point in NARD’s national advocacy for justice and protection for healthcare workers.
He equally commended the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, for his leadership and support for healthcare workers, saying the efforts had contributed to industrial harmony and the development of the state’s health sector.
Suleiman described Governor Soludo as a friend, father and mentor to resident doctors and expressed optimism that the partnership between NARD and the Anambra State Government would continue to strengthen specialist medical training and improve healthcare delivery.
