By Ebenezer Mabinuola
In a bold move to revitalise the healthcare system, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has increased the monthly salary of newly employed medical doctors from ₦150,000 to ₦500,000. The announcement came on Monday during the launch of the state’s Health Activation Programme in Abakaliki.
Describing the decision as a response to doctors’ financial struggles and rising living costs, Nwifuru cited social media feedback and internal surveys, including one case of a doctor spending 20 litres of fuel daily to reach a rural posting.
“Doctors deserve more,” the governor said. “This raise reflects the value we place on their service and sacrifice.”
The salary hike is part of a broader health sector overhaul, including:
- Over ₦10 billion invested in hospital upgrades and recruitment of 195 health workers,
- Launch of a Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) to ensure steady drug supply,
- Distribution of medical equipment worth ₦1 billion to general hospitals.
Governor Nwifuru also directed the Health Commissioner to fast-track the completion of health workers’ quarters and encouraged doctors to use state-provided accommodation.
“This is not a ceremony. It’s a commitment to restore trust in our health system,” he said, pledging accountability and community involvement.
Health Commissioner Dr. Moses Ekuma praised the initiatives, while Mrs. Jioke Chinwendu, head of the State Drug Management Agency, assured consistent drug availability, especially in rural areas.
Nwifuru concluded with a promise to establish specialist hospitals in all three senatorial zones and reduce medical tourism:
“This is a new dawn for health in Ebonyi. Together, we’ll build a system that delivers hope and healing to all.”
