By Uche Onyeali
As part of measures to address the challenges of human resources in the health sector, President Bola Tinubu has approved the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration.
Nigeria has been battling with the issue of medical experts abandoning their employment to seek better working conditions overseas.
Most health workers who run to other countries cite inadequate equipment, worsening insecurity, poor working conditions and poor salary structure as part of their reasons.
The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration comes as a drastic and significant approach to mitigate the challenge popularly referred to as ‘Japa’ syndrome.
Disclosing the president’s approval of the policy on his X (Twitter) handle on Monday, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate said the policy was more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals, but a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness and reverse health workers migration.
“This afternoon, President Bola Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, in-Council, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.
“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources. As the AU Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr President’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system is powerfully reflected in this forward-looking policy.
“This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it is a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness and reverse health workers migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded and optimally utilised to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians,” Pate said.
The minister noted that central to this vision is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which sets a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers, especially in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and reward they deserve.
“By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talents within Nigeria.
“In an increasingly digital world, integrating advanced health technologies is essential. The policy’s focus on digital health infrastructure—including Electronic Medical Records, Telehealth and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry—marks a significant step towards a more efficient, data-driven health system. These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring access to quality care for all Nigerians.
“Capacity building is at the heart of this policy. It recognises the importance of continuous professional development, with strategic partnerships and opportunities for international training to equip our healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills. This investment in human capital underscores our commitment to retain and empower our healthcare workforce,” the minister said.
He added that the policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the diaspora.
Pate said by establishing streamlined registration processes and providing attractive incentives, the policy not only encourages the return of talented professionals, but actively reintegrates them into the health system.
“This approach leverages the expertise of our diaspora to bridge the gap within the health sector. Also, the policy champions reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These bilateral and multilateral agreements are designed to protect national interests, while respecting the rights and aspirations of our healthcare professionals. We call on recipient countries to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker to replace every publicly trained Nigerian worker they receive.
“Recognising the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support and reasonable working hours, especially 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 @Fmohnigeria, in collaboration with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide health objectives.
“With this decisive action, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is set to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under Mr President’s leadership, this policy will catalyse the transformation of our health sector, ensure access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians. As we embark on this journey, all stakeholders are invited to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects our nation’s potential and promise,” he noted.
