President Bola Tinubu has approved a new national policy aimed at reducing the migration of health workers from Nigeria.
In a statement posted on X on Monday, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, revealed that the policy is a comprehensive plan designed to manage, harness, and reverse the trend of health worker migration.
The policy targets the ongoing issue of Nigerian healthcare professionals leaving the country for better opportunities, which has led to increased workloads and extended hours for those who remain.
The primary reasons for this exodus, as identified, include inadequate equipment, worsening insecurity, poor working conditions, and an unsatisfactory salary structure.
However, Pate stated: “This afternoon, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, in-Cou https://cdn.thenationonlineng.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20003146/Nation.jpg ncil, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.
“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources. As the African Union Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr. President’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system is clearly reflected in this forward-looking policy.
“This policy goes beyond merely responding to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it is a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilized to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.”
The minister highlighted that central to this vision is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which establishes a framework for regularly reviewing working conditions to ensure that health workers, particularly those in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and rewards they deserve.
“By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria.
“In an increasingly digital world, integrating advanced health technologies is essential. The policy’s focus on digital health infrastructure—including Electronic Medical Records, telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry—marks a significant step towards a more efficient, data-driven health system. These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring access to quality care for all Nigerians.”
