Nigeria is grappling with a significant brain drain in its healthcare sector, a trend driven by various economic, societal, and global factors.
The term “brain drain” refers to the migration of skilled health professionals in search of better living conditions, higher salaries, advanced technology, and more stable political environments abroad. This phenomenon has been exacerbated by underinvestment in healthcare and inadequate compensation for healthcare workers, leading many to relocate to developed countries.
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) highlights that the shortage of healthcare professionals has been a persistent issue since the mid-1980s when the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) diminished the purchasing power of Nigerians. This historical context has contributed to a continuous exodus of skilled medical practitioners.
Despite ongoing challenges, the problem has worsened, affecting not only experienced professionals but also younger health workers. Economic downturns, reduced government revenues, and increased unemployment have placed additional pressure on Nigeria’s healthcare system, further exacerbating the situation.
The health sector faces numerous obstacles, including inconsistent funding, heavy reliance on out-of-pocket payments, and inadequate conditions in healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. The Medical Guild, representing doctors employed by the Lagos State Government, underscores the severity of the brain drain. The guild reports that an average of two to three doctors resign from state primary and secondary facilities monthly without sufficient replacements, leading to overwork, burnout, and strained personal lives for the remaining staff.
Similarly, the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) reveals that over 100 psychiatric doctors left Nigeria between January 2023 and July 2024. The APN estimates that three out of every five psychiatric doctors trained in Nigeria choose to work abroad.
Currently, Nigeria has a doctor-to-patient ratio of approximately one doctor for every 10,000 patients, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommendation of one doctor per 600 people. This raises concerns about who will replace the existing medical workforce and address the ageing healthcare professionals.
Amina Dorayi, Country Director for Pathfinder in Nigeria, emphasizes that the country’s healthcare system needs urgent reform. She advocates for strategies to mitigate brain drain and boost motivation among healthcare professionals. Dorayi attributes the migration of medical professionals primarily to leadership failures and neglect within the health system.
To address this issue, Dorayi calls for the government to prioritize brain drain on the political agenda. She suggests that improved working conditions, infrastructure, and competitive remuneration are essential. Enhancing career development opportunities, such as training and mentorship, will also support professional growth.
Dorayi commends the federal government’s student loan initiative as a positive step and recommends its expansion to support individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing medical education. Ensuring the safety and security of healthcare professionals, especially in high-risk areas, is also crucial.
Additionally, engaging with the Nigerian healthcare community abroad could foster knowledge transfer and encourage professionals to return and contribute to the country’s health sector.
Addressing the brain drain in Nigeria’s healthcare system requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving capacity, increasing funding, and tackling social issues that drive professionals to seek opportunities abroad. The government’s commitment to these reforms is vital to reversing the trend and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
