*Embrace Green Energy in Hospitals
From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government, has taken decisive steps to improve healthcare delivery and retain medical personnel by implementing a revised 2024 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), for doctors working in public health facilities.
Dr Abdulraheem Malik, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Hospital Management Board, made the announcement during a press briefing in Ilorin, saying the decision was necessary to address the ongoing exodus of medical professionals from the state.
“Many of our doctors have left due to unattractive working conditions. This salary upgrade is part of a broader effort to reverse that trend and create an environment where our professionals feel valued,” Malik said.
In addition to improving remuneration, the state government is investing in renewable energy to ensure uninterrupted power supply in hospitals. Solar installations are now operational in facilities such as the General Hospital in Offa and Cottage Hospital in Adewole, as well as centres in Ajase Ipo, Eruku, Tsaragi, and Isin.
“These clean energy projects are not just about power; they reflect our commitment to climate-smart and sustainable healthcare,” Dr Malik explained.
The state is also intensifying efforts to build capacity within the sector. In partnership with UNFPA and UNICEF, a comprehensive two-week training on Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEMONC), was recently conducted, equipping doctors in every local government area with life-saving skills.
To improve access to pharmaceutical services, the board has accredited six facilities across the state to train pharmacy interns and is collaborating with local pharmaceutical companies to strengthen the drug supply chain.
“This is a holistic intervention,” Malik said. “It’s about creating a robust healthcare system where both workers and patients can thrive.”