The Lagos State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to review the administration’s economic policies and lower the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
Dr Saheed Kehinde, Chairman of the Lagos NMA, criticized the recent petrol price increase, describing it as a severe burden on Nigerians, including medical and dental professionals who are already grappling with significant economic challenges and insecurity.
Kehinde noted that the escalating petrol prices are exacerbating an already dire situation, with many healthcare professionals considering emigration due to the worsening economic conditions.
“The recent hike in PMS prices comes at a time when Nigerians are facing unprecedented economic pressures. This increase will affect all sectors, amplifying the mental, social, and emotional strain on citizens,” Kehinde stated.
“With soaring inflation and an all-time high cost of living, the spike in petrol prices will only deepen poverty, contribute to rising rates of depression, stress-related hospital admissions, social unrest, and even mortality.”
“How can we justify a scenario where doctors, earning an average of $300 per month, are expected to endure such steep rises in living costs? The increase in PMS prices has compounded the already unsustainable economic reality for healthcare professionals and all Nigerians,” he added in a statement issued on Thursday.
The NMA, Lagos State, is urging President Tinubu to take immediate action by reversing the petrol price hike to alleviate the strain on both medical professionals and the general public. The association is also calling for a reassessment of the country’s economic policies.
“We urge the President to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians by rolling back the petrol price hike. This move will provide much-needed relief amidst the recent removal of petrol subsidies, escalating inflation, rampant insecurity, high electricity tariffs, and excessive wage taxation,” Kehinde said.
The NMA also advocates for a shift towards self-sufficiency in petroleum production and a focus on revitalizing local refineries. Additionally, they emphasize the need to address persistent insecurity to foster a stable environment for economic growth and reduce the growing hardship and poverty among Nigerians.
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