Concern Medics Foundation (CMF), a group of Nigerian doctors based abroad, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Hospital for Women and Children in Abuja.
According to a statement provided to *Vanguard* on Thursday, the MoU was signed in Abuja by Professor Raji Mahmoud, Chief Medical Director of the hospital, and Dr. Sadiya Gumi, Chairperson of CMF.
The agreement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of ensuring that healthcare professionals in Nigeria are well-supported, adequately compensated, and fully utilized to address the country’s healthcare challenges, as emphasized by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.
The partnership was established to help reduce the “japa syndrome” affecting the country’s medical workforce by engaging Nigerian doctors abroad. Dr. Gumi explained that the collaboration will allow Nigerian doctors in the diaspora to participate in a two-year rotational program at the National Hospital, Abuja, with the aim of curbing the loss of medical talent.
The initiative seeks to transform “brain drain” into “brain gain,” with 24 doctors from around the world already signed up for the pilot program. These diasporan doctors are specialists in various fields, including surgery, psychiatry, intensive care, anesthesia, pediatrics, adult medicine, and general practice.
She said, “Nigerian doctors migrate to the United Kingdom (UK) and other Western nations to practice their skill which is a Brain Drain to Nigeria and its economy.”
“The Parties acknowledge the potential to turn Brain Drain to Brain Gain involving Nigerian doctors in diaspora. The Parties desires to collaborate to address the issue of medical brain drain by facilitating the involvement of Nigerian doctors in the diaspora, who will participate in a two-year rotation program at National Hospital Abuja.”
“Provide onsite accommodation for visiting diasporan doctors. Ensure the accommodation is renovated, furnished, and secure to create a conducive environment for the doctors.”
“Assist with necessary logistics support to facilitate the smooth integration of the visiting doctors into the hospital’s operations. Organized and coordinates the participation of Nigerian Doctors in the diaspora to come on rotation every month. Continuous training and mentoring of resident doctors.”
“Ensure that the doctors are registered and meet all necessary professional and regulatory requirements. Provide necessary logistical arrangements for the visiting doctors, including travel, food and transportation as needed. b. Collaborate with the National Hospital to ensure the sustainability and potential expansion of the program to other states in Nigeria.”
“Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any proprietary or sensitive information shared during this collaboration. Both parties will jointly monitor and evaluate the progress and impact of the program, making adjustments as necessary to achieve the desired outcomes.”
“Both parties agree to explore and secure funding and resources necessary to support the program’s implementation and sustainability. This MOU may be terminated by either party with a 60-day written notice. Upon termination, both party will work together to ensure a smooth transition and minimal disruption to the program.”
“We currently have 24 doctors from all over the world that have signed up for this pilot scheme. Some of the diasporan doctors are specialist in Surgery, psychiatry intensive care , anaesthetist , paediatrics, adult medicine and general practice etc.
“We hope to roll this out in all the 36 states not just Abuja. We continue to seek support by the government as mentioned by minister of health in latest article. It is due to start in September but due to logistic issues we will be starting November 2024.”
