The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has responded to claims made by Pastor Poju Oyemade, challenging his statement that becoming a medical doctor in Nigeria costs only ₦500,000.
The pastor, while speaking about Nigerians who relocate abroad for work, suggested that doctors trained locally spend far less than those in developed countries but still show dissatisfaction.
Oyemade made the comments in a sermon that has been circulating online.
He argued that many Nigerians who move abroad and take on multiple jobs to survive would have thrived at home if they had the same level of commitment.
He also questioned Nigeria’s unemployment figures, claiming informal business owners who earn money are often left out of official records.
He used the example of a wig seller who earned a large sum without being formally employed or registered with the government.
NARD, however, said the pastor’s views do not reflect the true financial demands of studying medicine in Nigeria.
In a statement shared on social media, the group noted that medical students face high expenses throughout their training, far beyond the ₦500,000 claimed.
Citing a published study, NARD said the actual cost of medical education in Nigeria ranges between $21,000 and $51,000, which covers tuition, daily living, and other related costs.
They also pointed out that despite these high costs, doctors in Nigeria earn very little compared to their counterparts abroad.
While U.S. doctors may earn as much as ₦24 million monthly, Nigerian doctors typically receive only about ₦250,000.
The association also addressed the pastor’s comments about gratitude.
According to them, many Nigerian doctors work under harsh conditions and still manage to deliver care, even when the health system is under pressure.
They added that while some wealthy Nigerians, including pastors, can afford to travel abroad for treatment, many citizens have no such option.
NARD urged Oyemade to use his influence to push for real change in the health sector.
They believe that instead of blaming professionals, more should be done to fix the system and support those who keep it running despite challenges.
Leave a Reply