Doctors Urge Tinubu to Reconsider Economic Policy, Reduce Fuel Prices

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State Branch, has called on President Bola Tinubu to reassess the government’s current economic policies and reduce the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Chairman of the Lagos NMA, Dr. Saheed Kehinde, expressed deep concern over the recent petrol price hike, highlighting the severe hardship it has inflicted on Nigerians, including medical and dental professionals. He noted that these professionals are already grappling with significant economic challenges and widespread insecurity.

Kehinde warned that many doctors and healthcare workers are being forced to leave Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad due to the worsening economic climate. The recent fuel price hike, he argued, would only exacerbate the existing difficulties faced by healthcare professionals and the general population.

“The increase in PMS prices comes at a time when Nigerians are enduring unprecedented economic pressures. This decision affects all sectors, intensifying the mental, social, and emotional strain on citizens,” Kehinde stated.

He emphasized that with inflation skyrocketing and the cost of living reaching record highs, the fuel price hike would deepen poverty and contribute to a surge in depression, stress-related hospital admissions, social unrest, and even mortality rates.

“How can we justify a situation where doctors, who earn an average of $300 per month, are expected to cope with such sharp increases in living expenses? The recent PMS price hike has worsened an already unsustainable economic reality for healthcare professionals and all Nigerians, making daily survival nearly impossible,” Kehinde lamented.

He urged President Tinubu to intervene urgently, calling for an immediate reversal of the petrol price increase to provide much-needed relief to the public. “We appeal to His Excellency to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians by reversing the price hike. This will offer some respite to our members and the general public, who are already overwhelmed by the removal of petrol subsidies, rising inflation, insecurity, high electricity tariffs, and excessive taxation,” Kehinde said.

In addition, the NMA chairman urged the Federal Government to reconsider its broader economic policies, advocating for a shift towards self-sufficiency in petroleum production. “Rather than continuing to raise fuel prices, we strongly recommend that the government focus on revitalising local refineries and ending petrol importation. This would reduce the economic burden on the nation and its people.”

Kehinde also stressed the importance of addressing Nigeria’s persistent insecurity, noting that a stable environment is essential for economic growth and alleviating the worsening poverty and hardship across the country.