In a concerning trend, the President of the Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists, Dr. Olubusola Alagbe-Briggs, reveals that more than 400 consultant anaesthetists have left Nigeria in the past two years seeking enhanced opportunities abroad. Speaking at the society’s 31st annual scientific conference in Gombe, Alagbe-Briggs attributes this mass departure to the global shortage of anaesthetists, underlining the intense and specialized nature of their services.
With a significant reduction in membership from 1,200 to 800, Alagbe-Briggs emphasizes that foreign nations are actively recruiting Nigerian anaesthetists due to their exceptional skills. She points out that the continual emigration of medical professionals will persist until there are substantial improvements in their welfare and the availability of necessary equipment.
Highlighting the importance of adequate equipment and improved welfare, Alagbe-Briggs stresses that these factors are crucial for advancing medical practice and services. The society aims to contribute to enhancing cancer care, participating in operational, pain relief, emergency, and intensive care aspects. The conference in Gombe serves as a platform for collaboration, brainstorming, and sharing research outcomes to elevate the standards of medical specialties.
