ABUJA – Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja has called the departure of Nigerian professionals a “looming national emergency.” He stated that an estimated 16,000 doctors have left Nigeria in the last seven years for countries like the UK, US, Canada, and Germany. This Nigerian doctors exodus was a key point in his homily for the 59th World Communications Day at St. Edwin’s Parish, Kubwa.
Archbishop Kaigama questioned the government’s silence on this brain drain, which includes many other skilled workers. “Does it not worry our government when those trained to build our nation flee due to poor working conditions, insecurity, and lack of basic professional tools?” he asked. The brain drain concern points to a serious threat to Nigeria’s development.
Media Urged to Address Nigerian Doctors Exodus
Archbishop Kaigama called on media professionals to highlight the impact of this brain drain. He urged truthful and compassionate reporting. Referencing Pope Francis’s theme, “Share with gentleness the hope that is in your hearts,” he asked journalists to be peacemakers. “Let your words heal, not wound. Let your messages bring hope, not fear,” he stated. He also warned against fake news and social media negativity, saying, “Social media must become a tool for edification, not destruction.”
By Abdullah Korede
