President Bola Tinubu’s new National Policy on Health Workforce Migration aims to tackle Nigeria’s healthcare brain drain by improving working conditions, integrating digital health technologies, and offering incentives for medical professionals. The policy also promotes the return of skilled professionals from abroad and focuses on enhancing overall job satisfaction.
President Bola Tinubu has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reversing the significant brain drain in Nigeria's healthcare sector. Announced by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration seeks to address the ongoing exodus of medical professionals, colloquially known as “Japa.”
The policy is designed to transform healthcare human resource management by improving working conditions, integrating advanced digital health technologies, and offering better incentives to retain medical staff. It also focuses on increasing the attractiveness of rural and underserved areas through a framework that ensures fair recognition and rewards for healthcare workers.
A key component of the policy is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which will regularly assess and improve health workers' conditions. It includes provisions for digital infrastructure enhancements such as Electronic Medical Records and telehealth services, aiming to create a more efficient and equitable healthcare system.
Additionally, the policy promotes the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from abroad by offering streamlined registration and attractive incentives. This initiative aims to leverage the expertise of the diaspora to bolster the national health system.
Prof. Pate emphasized that the policy reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to building a resilient healthcare system. It also includes measures for mental well-being and work-life balance, designed to reduce burnout and enhance job satisfaction among healthcare workers. The policy will be governed by the National Human Resources for Health Programme, ensuring alignment with broader health sector goals.
