The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kano State branch, has called on government and healthcare institutions to take urgent steps to address burnout, poor working conditions and other health challenges facing medical doctors.
The association warned that neglecting physicians’ welfare could undermine patient care and public health.
Speaking at the commencement of the 2026 Physicians’ Week in Kano, the state chairman of the association, Dr Abubakar Nagoma Usman, said many doctors were working under intense pressure characterised by long hours, heavy workloads, inadequate resources and difficult working conditions.
He said the situation had exposed many physicians to burnout, cardiovascular diseases and premature death.
”Doctors dedicate their lives to saving others, but those who care for the sick also need care, protection and support,” he said.
According to him, securing the future of medicine in Nigeria is impossible without ensuring the wellbeing of healthcare workers.
The association called for stronger institutional measures to promote occupational health, routine health screening and confidential healthcare services for medical practitioners.
It also urged authorities to address workforce shortages, improve working conditions, strengthen security in healthcare facilities and ensure prompt payment of doctors’ entitlements.
”A healthcare system that fails to protect its caregivers ultimately places its patients at risk. Saving the savers is not merely a professional welfare issue; it is a patient safety and public health priority,” Usman said.
The Physicians’ Week 2026, themed *”Securing the Future of Medicine in Nigeria,”* is focused on promoting physicians’ wellbeing and exploring the role of digital health, innovation and future-ready medical education in strengthening the healthcare system.
The NMA chairman also advocated increased investment in digital health infrastructure, telemedicine, electronic medical records and emerging healthcare technologies to improve service delivery.
He said medical education must be reformed to equip future physicians with digital skills, innovation, research capacity and other competencies required in modern healthcare practice.
Usman, however, stressed that technological advancement must remain patient-centred and ethically guided.
He called for sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, primary healthcare services, emergency care, workforce development and access to essential medicines and equipment across Kano State.
The association also urged residents to embrace preventive healthcare through routine medical check-ups and health screening.
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