In a startling revelation, the House of Representatives Committee on Health brought attention to a severe decline in the country’s health workforce, with 5 wards, totaling 150 beds, being closed at the prestigious Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
The cause
The migration of doctors and nurses from Nigeria’s premier health training institution to various destinations worldwide.
Expressing deep concern, Committee Chairman Dr. Amos Magaji addressed the press, characterizing the situation as worrisome.
Dr. Magaji affirmed the committee’s commitment to addressing the escalating trend of Nigerians seeking medical care abroad, describing it as the “japa syndrome.”
He emphasized the need for comprehensive measures, including the development of state-of-the-art infrastructure and making the healthcare sector more attractive and rewarding for workers across all fields.
During an oversight visit to LUTH in Idi-Araba, Dr. Magaji underscored the precarious state of Nigeria’s healthcare system, stating that the phenomenon of professionals leaving the country for better opportunities has expanded beyond just nurses and doctors to encompass various departments within the health sector.
Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Professor Wasiu Adeyemo, shared alarming statistics with lawmakers. Since its commissioning in 2019 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the cancer center at LUTH has treated over 9,600 patients. Interestingly, the center is not only serving the local population but has become a destination for citizens from Europe, Africa, and America seeking treatment.
Professor Adeyemo urged Nigerians to utilize the facility, commending the federal government and the House of Representatives for their ongoing support in ensuring LUTH’s ability to provide quality healthcare for the nation.
The juxtaposition of the hospital’s success in treating patients globally with the closure of beds due to healthcare professionals seeking opportunities abroad highlights the urgent need for intervention to stem the brain drain crisis in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.