The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Bauchi State Chapter, has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Bauchi State Government to address the concerns of veterinary doctors in the state. This decision was made at a news conference in Bauchi, where the State Chairman of the association, Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim, emphasized the need for equal treatment of veterinary doctors and medical doctors within the civil service.
Dr. Ibrahim pointed out that veterinary doctors and medical doctors occupy the same level within the civil service and therefore should receive equal treatment. He stressed that both professions should be treated equitably, considering their similar positions within the state's civil service structure. The association has made efforts to resolve this matter through appropriate channels, but the issue remains unresolved.
The NVMA chairman explained that the 21-day ultimatum was a result of the government's failure to address the concerns of veterinary doctors despite previous efforts. Dr. Ibrahim warned that if the government fails to address the matter within the given timeframe, veterinary services across the state and local government areas will be suspended. This suspension will affect various critical services, including abattoirs and slaughter facilities, meat inspection and certification services, and meat factories and processing facilities.
The suspension of veterinary services will also impact vaccination programs and the training of students. Dr. Ibrahim expressed hope that the government would take the ultimatum seriously and work towards a swift resolution. He emphasized the importance of resolving the issue in the interest of public health, food safety, and the development of veterinary services in Bauchi.
The Bauchi State Government has been urged to include veterinary doctors in the newly implemented revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for medical doctors. Dr. Ibrahim argued that this inclusion is essential to address the disparity in salaries and benefits between veterinary doctors and their medical counterparts. The NVMA remains committed to constructive engagement with the government to find a resolution.
The association's decision to issue an ultimatum was not taken lightly, according to Dr. Ibrahim. He stated that the NVMA had explored all avenues of dialogue and negotiation before taking this step. The chairman expressed confidence that a resolution can be reached through meaningful engagement with the government. The NVMA is hopeful that the government will prioritize the concerns of veterinary doctors and work towards a mutually beneficial solution.
The outcome of the ultimatum will have significant implications for the provision of veterinary services in Bauchi State. If the government fails to address the concerns of veterinary doctors, the suspension of services will undoubtedly impact the health and well-being of citizens. The NVMA has reiterated its commitment to finding a resolution that benefits both the government and the veterinary doctors.
Key points
- The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association has given the Bauchi State Government 21 days to address the salary issues affecting veterinary doctors.
- Veterinary doctors and medical doctors occupy the same level within the civil service and should receive equal treatment, according to Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim.
- Failure to address the concerns of veterinary doctors will lead to the suspension of critical veterinary services across the state and local government areas.
