Federal Government yesterday cautioned inducted foreign-trained doctors against joining strikes.
It noted while they have freedom of association, going by the policy of Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), they are not regarded as members of Association of Resident Doctors (ARD).
Admonishing the doctors to consider staying in the country to practise, the government said many doctors who travelled abroad are regretting, as they face discrimination over there.
Registrar of MDCN, Dr. Tajudeen Sanusi, spoke during induction of 477 foreign trained medical and dental graduates, comprising 469 doctors and eight dentists.
He said: “By council policy, you are not members of ARD. However, by Nigerian constitution, there is freedom of association. You can join. But if they call for a strike, don’t join them because your programme is structured and uninterrupted in each of the postings…
He added: “People say they want to emigrate. If you go out, have a mission. You can avail yourself with the best training. But always remember there is no other country than your own.
“Some of those abroad are regretting that they ought to have come back..”
Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, represented by Director of Planning, Research and Statistics of the Ministry, Dr. Ngozi Azodo, said: “We have been challenged in the profession. Right now, there is exodus of doctors. It is encouraging to be doing this and hopefully you will stay. In addition to the exodus, there are other challenges.
“When people come to you in their vulnerable state, they know you can help. Don’t exploit them. Commit today to help your patient, society and community. Doctors must care for themselves because if not, they will not be able to care for humanity.”
