Governor Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has approved a relief allowance of N150,000.00 to be added to the salaries of medical doctors working in general hospitals across the State. This decision is part of his efforts to curb the “Japa syndrome” and enhance the Healthcare Initiative in the state.
The governor disclosed this during a courtesy visit by members of the Ananda Marga Universal Relief Team (AMURT) Foundation, a non-governmental organization (NGO), at his office in the New Government House, Abakaliki.
Governor Nwifuru explained that the allowance is aimed at supporting the practical delivery of quality healthcare services to the people of Ebonyi. He mentioned that it would assist the doctors in covering expenses such as fuel for their new cars and other miscellaneous costs.
He also assured that the State Government will continue to collaborate with AMURT, which is currently active in some rural communities in the State. AMURT focuses on primary healthcare delivery, particularly maternal and child health.
To further support AMURT’s efforts, the governor stated that he has integrated AMURT staff into the State Civil Service to boost their morale. He added that should AMURT cease operations in the State, the integrated health workers will continue serving rural areas, utilizing the AMURT facilities that will be converted into health centres.