Oborevwori Approves ₦200,000 Tax-Free Allowance To Retain Doctors In Delta
Delta Unveils Bold Incentive to Retain Medical Workforce
DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved a sweeping welfare package aimed at reversing the growing exodus of medical professionals from the state, introducing a ₦200,000 monthly tax-free allowance for doctors.
The announcement was made in Asaba by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, who described the initiative—tagged the “MORE Special Allowance for Doctors”—as a strategic intervention to strengthen the state’s healthcare system.
According to Onojaeme, the allowance significantly boosts doctors’ earnings and positions Delta as one of the most competitive states for medical practice in Nigeria.
Salary Boost Targets ‘Japa’ Trend
Under the new structure, a Level-13 medical doctor previously earning about ₦370,000 monthly will now take home approximately ₦570,000. The tax-free nature of the allowance further increases its attractiveness.
The government has also extended similar benefits to early-career professionals. House officers are to receive an additional ₦100,000 monthly, raising their earnings from roughly ₦250,000 to over ₦350,000.
Officials say the move is designed not only to retain existing personnel but also to attract new entrants into the state’s health sector amid widespread migration of skilled workers abroad.
Massive Interest in Health Sector Jobs
The announcement comes as Delta’s ongoing recruitment drive records overwhelming interest, with more than 6,000 applicants competing for 700 available positions.
Despite the high turnout, the Commissioner expressed concern over a shortage of qualified medical doctors among applicants, suggesting a mismatch between demand and available expertise.
He, however, expressed optimism that the improved remuneration would attract more qualified professionals and close existing gaps.
Merit-Based Recruitment and Reform Agenda
Authorities have reiterated that the recruitment process will remain strictly merit-based. Applicants were cautioned against engaging middlemen or attempting to influence outcomes through financial inducements.
Onojaeme noted that the welfare package could also help reduce industrial disputes within the health sector, as it addresses longstanding concerns around poor remuneration.
Broader Healthcare Goals
Beyond workforce retention, the state government is positioning the policy as part of a broader healthcare reform agenda aimed at improving service delivery.
Leveraging the momentum of World Health Day 2026, the Commissioner urged residents to prioritise preventive healthcare through regular check-ups and early diagnosis.
The new policy signals Delta State’s intent to build a more stable, motivated, and well-compensated medical workforce, potentially setting a benchmark for other states grappling with similar challenges.
