Nigeria’s healthcare system is coming under increasing pressure as the migration of medical professionals continues to rise, with thousands of doctors relocating abroad in search of better opportunities.
According to data from the General Medical Council, no fewer than 4,691 Nigerian doctors have moved to the United Kingdom since May 29, 2023, when Bola Tinubu assumed office. The figure reflects a growing trend driven by economic hardship and challenging working conditions at home.
The total number of Nigerian-trained doctors currently practising in the UK has climbed to about 15,692, positioning Nigeria as one of the largest sources of foreign-trained doctors in Britain, behind only India.
Experts warn that the continued exodus is further weakening Nigeria’s fragile health sector. The country’s doctor-to-patient ratio remains significantly below the benchmark set by the World Health Organization, leaving hospitals overstretched and healthcare delivery increasingly strained.
Beyond manpower shortages, the migration carries a heavy economic cost. With an estimated $21,000 required to train a single doctor, Nigeria is believed to have lost close to $100 million in human capital investment within a short period.
Professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association and the National Association of Resident Doctors, link the trend to poor salaries, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, and excessive workloads. Many doctors report burnout and limited career growth, prompting their decision to leave.
Despite government efforts to curb the “Japa” wave among healthcare workers, analysts argue that the underlying issues remain largely unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Nigerians continue to spend significant amounts on medical treatment abroad, underscoring persistent gaps in the nation’s healthcare system.
Elijah Adeyemi
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