The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Lagos State Branch expressed worry and dismay on Thursday regarding the unexpected increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
The NMA claimed that Nigerians were now subject to even more intolerable hardship as a result of the unilateral decision.
The doctors in Lagos claimed that their members, who are already dealing with extreme economic hardship and insecurity, are being negatively impacted by the current state of affairs in the nation.
“The terrible economic climate is forcing many of these medical and dental professionals to flee the country in large numbers, and this new development will only make their already difficult circumstances worse.” The State Chairman, Dr. Saheed Babajide, signed a press release that stated: “The increase in PMS prices coincides with previously unheard-of economic strains faced by Nigerians.” This decision will have an effect on all spheres of society, exacerbating the mental, social, and emotional strain that the populace is already under.
“With inflation soaring and the cost of living at an all-time high, the sudden increase in petrol prices will not only increase poverty across the country, but will also contribute to rising rates of depression, hospital admissions for stress-related medical conditions, social unrest, and even mortality.
“How can we rationalise a system in which doctors, who make an average of $300 per month, are supposed to deal with such exorbitant rises in living expenses? The recent increase in PMS prices has only exacerbated an already untenable economic situation for healthcare professionals, and indeed all Nigerians, making it practically difficult for them to cope.”
The Lagos NMA urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the case immediately. “We urge him to prioritise Nigerians’ wellbeing by promptly reverting the PMS price increase to its previous level.
Such a measure will bring much-needed assistance to our members and the general public, who are already struggling as a result of the recent elimination of petrol subsidies, rising inflation, widespread insecurity, expensive power rates, and disproportionate taxation on income.
“Furthermore, rather than continuing to punish the public with rising fuel prices, we strongly ask the federal government to reconsider its economic policies.Nigeria should aim towards self-sufficiency in the manufacture of petroleum products, particularly PMS.
“We urge the government to hasten measures to eliminate petroleum imports and focus on revitalising our domestic refineries. Furthermore, resolving the country’s ongoing insecurity must be a key priority if we are to create a stable environment favourable to economic progress and close the ever-widening gap of suffering and poverty among Nigerians.
” He further stated that the NMA Lagos was devoted to campaigning for the well-being of Nigerians and its members who continued to deliver important healthcare services under increasingly tough circumstances.
He said, “We think Nigeria can overcome these challenges and create a more equitable and sustainable future for all with decisive and compassionate leadership.”
Bottom Line
The fact that medical professionals are being particularly vocal about this issue reflects the seriousness of the situation.
With many doctors already leaving the country in search of better opportunities, the rise in fuel prices only worsens their situation, further threatening the healthcare system’s stability.
The NMA’s appeal to the federal government, especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to reverse the price hike and re-prioritize the wellbeing of citizens, underscores the urgency for the government to adopt more people-centered policies.
The spike in fuel prices has far-reaching consequences beyond transportation, affecting healthcare delivery, mental health, social stability, and even life expectancy due to poverty-induced stress.
