The Guild of Medical Directors reports that over 50% of private hospitals in Nigeria have shut down due to rising operational costs and economic challenges. Dr. Raymond Kuti, GMD president, calls for urgent government support to prevent further closures and sustain the role of private hospitals in healthcare.
The Guild of Medical Directors (GMD) has raised concerns over Nigeria's struggling private healthcare sector, reporting that over 50% of private hospitals have closed due to financial hardships. Dr. Raymond Kuti, the GMD president, explained that rising operational costs, especially for electricity and medical supplies, have left many private hospitals unable to survive. He noted that on average, three out of six private hospitals shut down each month as costs soar by up to 500%, particularly impacting Band-A hospitals.
The crisis is compounded by declining patient numbers and the “Japa” trend, where skilled healthcare professionals emigrate for better opportunities, causing severe staffing shortages. Many Nigerians, facing economic hardship, delay seeking medical care or turn to self-medication and local remedies instead.
Dr. Kuti called for immediate government intervention to prevent further closures, stressing that without support, private hospitals may no longer be able to serve their communities effectively. He urged the government to acknowledge these challenges and provide necessary assistance to help sustain the vital role of private healthcare facilities within Nigeria’s healthcare system.
