Oborevwori Unveils N200,000 Tax-Free Allowance to Retain Delta Doctors

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved a comprehensive welfare package for medical doctors in Delta State, including a ₦200,000 monthly tax-free allowance aimed at curbing the growing wave of medical brain drain.

The State Commissioner for Health, Joseph Onojaeme, disclosed the development during a media briefing in Asaba, describing the initiative as a strategic response to the “Japa” phenomenon affecting Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

According to Onojaeme, the allowance, tagged the “MORE Special Allowance for Doctors,” will significantly boost earnings and improve retention. He explained that a doctor on Level 13, currently earning about ₦370,000 monthly, will now receive approximately ₦570,000 with the new incentive.

The intervention also covers house officers, who will receive a ₦100,000 tax-free allowance. This raises their monthly earnings from over ₦250,000 to more than ₦350,000.

The commissioner noted that the financial incentives are expected to make Delta State more competitive in attracting and retaining medical professionals, even as other states and the Federal Government grapple with workforce shortages.

Meanwhile, the state’s ongoing health sector recruitment has drawn over 6,000 applicants competing for 700 available positions. However, Onojaeme expressed concern over the relatively low number of qualified medical doctors among the applicants.

He expressed optimism that the improved remuneration would not only attract more doctors but also reduce the likelihood of industrial actions in the sector.

On the recruitment process, the commissioner warned applicants against engaging in fraudulent practices, stressing that the exercise remains strictly merit-based and free of financial inducements.

He also used the occasion of World Health Day 2026 to urge residents to adopt proactive health-seeking habits, including regular medical check-ups, noting that early detection is key to preventing complications.

The welfare package marks a major step in Delta State’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare system and build a more motivated and sustainable medical workforce.