In a significant move, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has given the green light for the disbursement of over N300 million as a grant to 389 medical practitioners in the State Civil Service currently undergoing residency training.
The State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, made this announcement during a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Thursday evening.
The funds released will cater for the consecutive years of 2023-2024 in meeting the Residency Training Grant requirements. The payments will range from N800,000 to N900,000 per resident doctor annually.
For the year 2023, a total of 215 resident doctors received the grant, while 174 resident doctors have already benefitted from the training grant in 2024 in the State.
By approving this initiative, the commissioner highlighted that Fubara has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the professional growth of doctors in Junior and Senior residency levels. This move ensures that the training process is not hindered by the lack of necessary grants, which serve as long-standing incentives for healthcare workers.
Fubara believes that with such support, the medical professionals undergoing residency training will be more dedicated, acquiring the essential skills needed to provide top-notch healthcare services while working under the state’s employment.
Oreh acknowledged the significance of continuous education and training for improving the healthcare delivery standards in the State.
She stated: “Ongoing education is crucial for doctors to stay updated with the latest medical advancements and practices, ensuring optimal patient care.
“Conducting research is an integral part of medical training, and these funds support the costs linked to research proposals and dissertations.
“Additionally, transportation costs to examination centers can be a financial burden, especially for doctors stationed in different parts of the State.
“Covering examination fees for Parts I and II of residency exams is essential to ensure financial constraints do not hinder doctors from progressing in their careers.”
In appreciation of the governor’s focus on addressing the welfare needs of healthcare personnel, the commissioner commended his proactive approach and determination to tackle critical issues hindering human capacity development, setting a positive example for others to follow.
The commissioner stressed that Fubara’s gesture, within just one year in office, will ultimately lead to improved health outcomes for the citizens of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.