Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, has emphasized that improving hospital security and implementing robust legal protections are essential steps to combat the rising incidence of violence against medical professionals in Nigeria. She spoke while inaugurating the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Abeokuta, which focused on the safety of healthcare workers.
Salako-Oyedele highlighted the necessity for a unified effort involving government bodies, security agencies, and local communities to ensure practitioners can work safely. She pointed out that while doctors commit themselves to saving lives, they often face significant occupational hazards and threats. Citing World Health Organisation statistics, she noted that approximately 38 per cent of healthcare workers globally suffer physical violence, a trend that unfortunately extends to Nigeria where staff are frequently threatened or assaulted after patient fatalities.
The Abiodun administration remains focused on prioritizing the health sector, with continued investments in primary healthcare, infrastructure, and the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme. Other state officials, including Head of Service Saka Olanrewaju and Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to doctor welfare and professional support. NMA branch chairman Dr. Ogunjimi Luqman praised the administration for recent financial improvements, including the payment of residency training funds, while stakeholders collectively called for urgent action to address workplace violence and the resulting brain drain.
