The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, highlights the high demand for Nigerian-trained doctors and nurses globally, with 67% currently employed in the UK. In a recent interview on Channels Television, Prof Pate emphasized the potential challenges the UK’s National Health Service could face if Nigerian health workers were to withdraw.
President Bola Tinubu has approved a new National Policy on Health Workforce Migration to tackle the mass exodus of health professionals from Nigeria, often termed as ‘Japa’. The minister expressed pride in the value Nigerian doctors and nurses hold internationally.
Prof Pate raised the issue of responsibility on recruitment countries to aid in expanding healthcare training to help sustain the continuous strain of migration. He also discussed the concept of health diplomacy and ethical replacement, suggesting reciprocal programs that benefit both nations.
While acknowledging the government cannot restrict movement, efforts will be made to create a more conducive environment for health workers to stay and practice in Nigeria. The aim is to attract and retain skilled professionals while also incentivizing those abroad to return.