The Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has expressed concern about the adverse effects of the brain drain on the country’s healthcare institutions. They noted that several departments in teaching hospitals are shutting down due to the significant brain drain issue, often referred to as ‘Japa.’
Prof. Muhammad Muhammad, the newly-elected President of MDCAN, revealed this during a press briefing following the conclusion of the association’s 13th Biennial Delegates meeting and scientific conference in Kano. He lamented that more than 500 specialist doctors specializing in medical education have emigrated from Nigeria.
Prof. Muhammad stated, “Our survey conducted approximately two years ago indicated that around 500 specialist doctors have emigrated from Nigeria. These professionals are crucial to medical education and the training of the next generation of doctors.
The alarming rate of migration has left some departments with just one or two doctors to perform duties that should be handled by ten. It would take nearly a decade to replace this number at our current rate of production, which is a concerning situation that has only worsened.”
He continued, “The brain drain challenges in the healthcare sector persist, with highly skilled healthcare professionals leaving not only for countries outside Africa but also neighboring West African nations. Urgent government intervention is needed to address this issue, including offering incentives to retain our depleted healthcare workforce. Without improvements in infrastructure, working conditions, and security, it will be challenging to prevent further emigration.”
“Medical education is under threat due to the significant number of specialists and trainers leaving for other countries. Many universities currently have fewer training opportunities than they have the capacity to provide.
The government must make concerted efforts to motivate and retain our healthcare workforce to enhance the quality of medical education and training in Nigeria,” Prof. Muhammad added.
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