Success Nwankwo
The Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved a policy aimed at addressing the crucial issue of healthcare workforce migration.
Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has announced a significant decision to enhance the country’s healthcare system.
In a statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Prof. Pate highlighted the significance of the newly approved National Policy on Health Workforce Migration.
“This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it’s a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health workers migration,” Pate remarked.
He emphasized that the policy reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system.
The strategy seeks to create an atmosphere that promotes professional development, stability, and the retention of top healthcare professionals in Nigeria. It addresses critical issues confronting the country’s health sector, such as the movement of competent experts to other nations in quest of better prospects.
The policy focuses on integrating advanced digital health technologies like Electronic Medical Records, telehealth services, and a Health Workforce Registry to improve healthcare delivery and worker distribution. It also emphasizes capacity building through professional development, strategic partnerships, and international training opportunities.
The policy prioritizes healthcare workers’ well-being, especially younger doctors, with routine health checks, mental support, and reasonable working hours. It’s overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Programme, collaborating with state governments.
Prof. Pate closed his comments by urging all stakeholders to help ensure the successful implementation of this policy, which he regarded as critical to the future of Nigeria’s healthcare sector. “Under Mr. President’s leadership, this policy will further catalyse the transformation of our health sector, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians,” he told journalists.