President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has approved the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare sector. The announcement was made by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, on his X handle on Monday.
Prof. Pate emphasized that the policy is not just a reaction to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals but a comprehensive strategy aimed at managing, harnessing, and reversing the migration of health workers. He stated, “This afternoon, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria. The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses critical challenges within Nigeria’s health sector.”
As the African Union (AU) Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system is clearly reflected in this policy. It envisions a well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilized health workforce that meets the needs of all Nigerians.
Many Nigerian healthcare workers have left the country for better opportunities abroad, leaving those who remain to cope with increased workloads and extended hours. The factors driving this migration include inadequate equipment, worsening insecurity, poor working conditions, and low salaries.
Central to the new policy is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which will regularly review working conditions to ensure that health workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and rewards they deserve. The policy aims to create an environment that fosters professional growth and stability to retain top talent within Nigeria.
The policy also focuses on integrating advanced health technologies, such as Electronic Medical Records, telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry. These innovations are expected to streamline healthcare delivery and improve the distribution of health workers across the country, ensuring equitable access to quality care.
Capacity building is another key aspect of the policy, emphasizing continuous professional development and international training opportunities to equip healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills. This investment in human capital is intended to retain and empower Nigeria’s healthcare workforce.
Additionally, the policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the diaspora. By establishing streamlined registration processes and offering attractive incentives, it encourages the return of skilled professionals and actively reintegrates them into the healthcare system.
The policy also champions reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These agreements are designed to protect national interests while respecting the rights and aspirations of healthcare professionals. For instance, recipient countries are encouraged to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker for every publicly trained Nigerian worker they receive.
Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, particularly for younger doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.
The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Programme within the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader health sector objectives.
With this decisive action, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is set to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, this policy is expected to catalyze the transformation of the health sector, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians. Prof. Pate called on all stakeholders to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects the nation’s potential and promise.
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