President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, a comprehensive strategy aimed at managing, harnessing, and reversing the exodus of healthcare professionals from Nigeria.
Prof Muhammad Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, made the announcement on Monday.
The policy seeks to create a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilized to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians. It envisions a system where healthcare workers are recognized and rewarded, especially in rural and underserved areas.
The policy tackles push factors driving healthcare workers out of the country, including inadequate equipment, worsening insecurity, poor working conditions, and poor salary structures. It also focuses on digital health infrastructure, capacity building, and continuous professional development.
By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria. It also addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the Diaspora, leveraging their expertise to bridge gaps within the health sector.
The National Human Resources for Health Programme within the Federal Ministry of Health will oversee the policy’s implementation, ensuring responsible execution and alignment with broader sector-wide health objectives. Stakeholders are invited to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects Nigeria’s potential and promise.
