The Federal Government has introduced the Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora Plus Engagement Programme to tackle the brain drain in the healthcare sector.
This initiative is aimed at bringing back the expertise of Nigerian health professionals working abroad to help improve healthcare in the country.
At the Diaspora Stakeholders’ Forum in Abuja, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the importance of this new programme. He said, “The achievement of universal health coverage has been significantly hampered by the persistent emigration of our healthcare workforce. However, this initiative offers a chance to reverse the trend of brain loss.”
The programme is a key part of the government’s four-point Strategic Health Agenda. It focuses on reforming healthcare through better governance, developing the health value chain, improving health security, and ensuring quality health systems.
Dr. Alausa urged both the private sector and international partners to support the programme. He also encouraged Nigerian medical professionals abroad to invest in clinical research, biomedical technology, and telemedicine to help bridge gaps in healthcare delivery.
Dr. Ibrahim Wada, the founder of NISA Premier Medical Group, spoke on the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in enhancing healthcare. He emphasized the need for strong local involvement, saying, “Effective management creates a seamless experience for both healthcare professionals and patients, not just modern equipment.”
Dr. Wada also called for better infrastructure and support for returning professionals to ensure their contributions have a lasting impact.
Pamela Ajayi, the president of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, talked about Nigeria’s potential to become a major hub for medical care in West Africa.
She noted that investment in medical infrastructure, like establishing healthcare banks, would help develop the sector. She also pointed out that digital platforms and artificial intelligence could greatly expand healthcare access in rural areas.
Ajayi added, “The involvement of the Nigerian diaspora is essential for advancing healthcare infrastructure, innovation, and research.”
Dr. Bala Audu, president of the Nigerian Medical Association, stressed the need for international partnerships and education to retain skilled healthcare workers and improve healthcare outcomes.
He explained that collaboration with countries like the UK could strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare systems and create more opportunities for healthcare professionals.
