Abuja – Nigeria’s healthcare system is under severe strain. More than 16,000 doctors have left the country over the last five to seven years, seeking better opportunities abroad. This large-scale Nigeria doctor migration has created a critical shortage. The nation now has only 3.9 doctors for every 10,000 people, far below global minimum standards. With the cost to train each doctor exceeding $21,000, this exodus also represents a huge financial loss for Nigeria.
Government Seeks Solutions to Doctor Brain Drain
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, acknowledged the serious impact. He stated this trend weakens the national healthcare system and leaves many rural communities without adequate medical care. However, Minister Pate also framed the crisis as a moment to reform policies for managing the health workforce. He mentioned new strategies guided by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The government’s National Policy on Health Workforce Migration specifically targets the Nigeria doctor migration issue. It aims to respect doctors’ rights while protecting the nation’s health services.
African Medical Councils Collaborate
Regional efforts are also underway. The Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA) is working to address healthcare difficulties across the continent, including improving regulation. AMCOA President, Prof. Joel Okullo, highlighted the need for African nations to cooperate. He stressed that working together can produce effective strategies to improve healthcare delivery for everyone. Prof. Okullo urged a shared commitment to bring positive change to Africa’s health landscape.
