(DDM) – The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has disbursed more than ₦11 million as part of its endowment fund to support the treatment of five ailing doctors within the state.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the gesture is part of the association’s welfare initiative aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of its members, many of whom face medical, psychological, and economic challenges while serving in the healthcare sector.
The Akwa Ibom NMA Chairman, Dr. Ekem John, confirmed the disbursement during a media briefing in Uyo, the state capital, noting that the beneficiaries received the funds within the past one year.
According to him, the association set up the endowment fund as a permanent support mechanism for members facing life-threatening illnesses, especially those unable to afford expensive medical treatment locally or abroad.
“We are proud to say that within one year, over ₦11 million has been released to assist five of our colleagues battling various ailments,” Dr. John told DDM.
He added that the move demonstrates NMA’s commitment to the welfare of doctors, stressing that the medical profession, though noble, comes with immense pressure and health risks.
DDM learned that the endowment fund was created from voluntary contributions by members, donations from corporate organizations, and support from philanthropists who believe in strengthening healthcare delivery through the wellbeing of practitioners.
The NMA chairman explained that many doctors suffer burnout, stress-related diseases, and other chronic conditions due to heavy workloads and poor working conditions in hospitals across Nigeria.
“As doctors, we save lives every day, but sometimes we also need help to stay alive,” he said. “That’s why this fund is critical.”
The fund has so far covered cases ranging from cancer treatments and heart-related surgeries to long-term rehabilitative care, ensuring that affected doctors receive the medical attention they need without financial strain.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the initiative comes amid growing concerns about the exodus of medical professionals from Nigeria, with thousands migrating abroad due to low remuneration, insecurity, and poor working environments.
Health experts told DDM that internal welfare schemes like the NMA’s endowment fund could help retain doctors and encourage solidarity within the profession.
“When doctors know they won’t be abandoned in sickness, it strengthens unity,” said Dr. Edidiong Effiong, a public health physician in Uyo.
Dr. John also appealed to state authorities and private health institutions to emulate the gesture by establishing similar welfare schemes for medical and non-medical staff.
He further emphasized that healthcare delivery in Nigeria cannot improve unless the wellbeing of medical personnel is prioritized.
Meanwhile, the beneficiaries, whose names were not disclosed for privacy reasons, expressed gratitude to the NMA leadership for standing by them during their health challenges.
They described the support as a lifeline that restored hope at a time of despair, calling on colleagues to continue contributing to the fund.
The Akwa Ibom NMA leadership reaffirmed its plan to expand the initiative, ensuring more doctors benefit from the next round of disbursements scheduled for 2026.
“We will continue to raise awareness, seek partnerships, and ensure transparency in managing this fund,” Dr. John concluded.
The association’s gesture has drawn praise from the wider medical community, with observers describing it as a rare show of compassion and accountability in Nigeria’s strained healthcare system.