Rita Odafe
President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given the green light to the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration in Nigeria to tackle the issue of limited human resources in the healthcare sector.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, announced this decision.
Pate highlighted that the policy is not just a reaction to the current wave of healthcare workers moving abroad but a comprehensive plan to manage, utilize, and reverse this migration trend.
Pate stated, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, has approved a groundbreaking policy that will revolutionize healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.
“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration aims to tackle the urgent issues faced by the health workforce in Nigeria. As the AU Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, President Tinubu’s commitment to a strong and sustainable healthcare system is highlighted in this forward-thinking policy.
“This policy not only addresses the ongoing departure of healthcare professionals but also outlines a holistic approach to manage, utilize, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a vibrant workforce that is well-supported, fairly compensated, and effectively deployed to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.”
The minister emphasized the significance of the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme in realizing this vision. It establishes a framework for regular evaluations of working conditions, ensuring that healthcare workers, especially in rural and underserved areas, are appropriately acknowledged and rewarded.
“By creating a conducive environment for professional advancement and stability, the policy aims to retain top-notch talent within Nigeria.
“In a world that is increasingly digital, incorporating advanced healthcare technologies is crucial. The policy’s emphasis on digital health infrastructure—including Electronic Medical Records, telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry—represents a significant progress towards a more efficient, data-oriented health system. These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and improve the equitable distribution of healthcare workers, ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality care.
“Capacity building is a core aspect of this policy. It recognizes the importance of continuous professional growth, with strategic collaborations and opportunities for international training to equip our healthcare professionals with state-of-the-art skills. This investment in human capital underscores our commitment to retaining and empowering our healthcare workforce,” he explained.
He further mentioned that the policy deals with the repatriation and reintegration of Nigerian healthcare professionals from overseas.
He outlined that by establishing simplified registration procedures and offering attractive incentives, the policy not only motivates skilled professionals to return but actively integrates them into the healthcare system.
“This strategy leverages the knowledge of our diaspora to fill gaps in the healthcare sector. Moreover, the policy advocates for mutual agreements with other countries to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These bilateral and multilateral agreements are designed to safeguard national interests while respecting the rights and ambitions of our healthcare professionals. We urge recipient countries to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker to replace every Nigerian worker they receive who was trained using public resources.
“Recognizing the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for regular health assessments, mental health support, and reasonable working hours, especially for young doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reduce burnout, and enhance job satisfaction.
“The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Programme within @Fmohnigeria, in partnership with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide healthcare objectives.
“Through this decisive move, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is poised to safeguard the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, this policy will further accelerate the transformation of our healthcare sector, guaranteeing access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians. As we embark on this journey, all stakeholders are encouraged to contribute to building a healthcare system that mirrors our nation’s potential and prospects,” Pate concluded.
