The Nigerian Medical Association, Akwa Ibom State chapter, released over N11m endowment fund for the treatment of five sick members in one year.
The state NMA chairman, Dr Aniekan Peter, disclosed this during the Physician Week 2025 dinner on Saturday.
The week, with the theme “Healthcare As a Value Chain: Building Efficiency From Policy To Patent,” was celebrated from October 19 to 26, 2025.
Speaking at the event, Peter said, “So far, we have paid over N11m endowment fund to five of our members in one year.
“When a doctor is sick and unable to fund his treatment, he or she applies to the association for funding, and we release sums ranging from N2m to N4m, depending on the severity of the illness.”
He highlighted some of the achievements of his executive committee within the year, including the settlement of CONMESS and promotion arrears for members at the University of Uyo, the resolution of entry-level issues for residents at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, and the award of a scholarship to the brilliant but indigent child of a deceased colleague, among others.
While commending his colleagues for their “dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care for their patients, despite obvious challenges, the chairman lamented that the workload had taken a toll on them, leading to burnout and exhaustion.
He said, “The NMA AKS wishes to highlight the harsh reality of the work conditions for Nigerian doctors.
“While a doctor in a developed country may see 20 patients in a day, in Nigeria, it is not uncommon for a doctor to see above 60 patients in a busy clinic.
“This is a testament to the resilience and dedication of Nigerian doctors who continue to serve despite the challenging circumstances.”
He lauded Governor Umo Eno for recognising the efforts of doctors in the state by increasing their wages and allowances, as well as improving infrastructural facilities.
The state Vice Chairman of the NMA, Dr Tiemah Akpabio, urged members to see themselves as the missing link between policy-making and efficient patient care.
She further encouraged them to prepare for the revolution in healthcare brought about by Artificial Intelligence.
Though she stressed that AI would not replace their jobs, but urged all members to be compliant.
