The International College of Surgeons, Nigerian Section (ICS-NS) reports a concerning trend of Nigerian doctors migrating to the United Kingdom (UK), with 6,221 doctors lost in the last six years alone. This mass exodus has left a significant healthcare workforce gap in Nigeria.
As a result of the brain drain, over 40 million Nigerians are now facing difficulties in accessing medical care. The scarcity of doctors has widened the doctor-patient ratio beyond the recommended standards set by the World Health Organization.
Challenges and Recommendations: The ICS-NS emphasizes the need for improved healthcare financing and a shift from the predominantly out-of-pocket payment system to a National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) financed method. It also stresses the importance of strengthening security in the country and providing attractive incentives to retain healthcare professionals within Nigeria.
