Doctors in Ogun State have called on the state government to introduce a tax rebate for healthcare workers working in government establishments. The appeal was made by Dr. Luqman Ogunjimi, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Ogun State, during a press conference held at the NMA secretariat in Abeokuta.
The event marked the beginning of the association’s Annual General Meeting, scheduled from August 3rd to 9th, with the theme, “Leveraging on Technology to Drive Medical Practice in the Era of Dwindling Medical Personnel.”
Dr. Ogunjimi emphasised that reducing the tax burden on doctors would help retain the remaining healthcare workers in the state. While acknowledging the government’s recent approval of salary parity with federal medical workers, he expressed concern over the high tax deductions, which have become a significant issue for doctors.
He noted that the salary adjustment came after over 16 months of advocacy, but the current tax rates are discouraging and could drive more medical personnel away.
The NMA chairman clarified that doctors are not seeking exemption from taxes but rather a reduction in the deductions, similar to measures implemented in other states for healthcare workers. He stressed that the current tax rates are affecting morale and discouraging professionals from remaining in public service.
Despite these challenges, the NMA reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of its members to enhance productivity and encourage continued service to humanity. The association hopes the state government will consider their appeal as part of efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector.
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