Abuja: A Neurosurgeon at Adamawa Teaching Hospital (ATH) has called on the Federal Government to address challenges in the health sector to stem the growing migration of healthcare workers from Nigeria. The specialist made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, warning that the migration trend was depleting the nation’s healthcare workforce.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the specialist highlighted poor remuneration, inadequate working conditions, lack of modern medical equipment, and insecurity as factors driving healthcare professionals to seek better opportunities abroad. This migration, often referred to as the ‘Japa’ phenomenon, weakens the nation’s healthcare system and increases pressure on the remaining workers.
The neurosurgeon emphasized that many hospitals are struggling with manpower shortages, leading to overworked staff, reduced quality of care, and longer patient wait times. He urged the government to take deliberate steps to improve welfare packages, provide modern medical facilities, and create a conducive working environment to curb the ‘Japa’ syndrome.
He further stressed the need for increased investment in the health sector, continuous training for medical personnel, and policies that encourage professionals to stay and build careers in Nigeria. Failure to act could result in a serious healthcare crisis due to the loss of experienced professionals to foreign countries.
The expert pointed out that Nigerian healthcare professionals are among the best globally but are leaving in search of better pay and improved working conditions. He called for heavy investment in healthcare infrastructure, equipping hospitals with modern medical facilities, adequate drug supplies, and functional equipment necessary for quality service delivery.
To address these challenges, the expert advocated for the recruitment of more trained healthcare workers to reduce workload pressures and enhance service delivery nationwide. He also recommended prompt salary payments, safer working conditions, and more conducive work environments to improve job satisfaction and retain skilled professionals within the country.
Furthermore, he suggested that regular training and career development opportunities be provided to enhance the skills of medical professionals and foster career growth without the need to relocate abroad.