The Federal Government has launched the Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora Plus Engagement Programme to tackle brain drain in the healthcare sector by leveraging the expertise of Nigerian health professionals living abroad.
Speaking at the Diaspora Stakeholders’ Forum in Abuja, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, explained that the initiative aims to establish long-term collaboration between Nigerian healthcare professionals in the diaspora and those at home.
“Achieving universal health coverage has been hindered by the steady emigration of our medical workforce. This program offers an opportunity to reverse the trend of brain drain,” Dr. Alausa noted. The program aligns with the government’s four-point Strategic Health Agenda, which seeks to reform healthcare through enhanced governance, value chain development, health security, and the provision of high-quality health services.
Dr. Alausa called on private sector stakeholders and international partners to support the initiative. He also encouraged diaspora medical professionals to invest in clinical research, biomedical technology, and telemedicine as ways to close gaps in healthcare service delivery.
Dr. Ibrahim Wada, founder of the NISA Premier Medical Group, emphasized the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in improving healthcare. He highlighted the importance of community engagement and building capacity at the grassroots level, adding that effective management is key to delivering quality healthcare. “High-tech equipment alone is not enough. Proper management is vital for creating a smooth experience for both healthcare professionals and patients,” Wada stated.
He also urged for improved infrastructure and support for returning professionals from the diaspora to ensure their contributions have a lasting impact.
Pamela Ajayi, president of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), spoke on Nigeria’s potential to become a leading medical hub in West Africa. She stressed the importance of investing in medical infrastructure, including the creation of healthcare banks, to support development. She also highlighted how digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) could expand healthcare access in rural areas.
Ajayi further noted that involving the Nigerian diaspora is crucial to advancing healthcare innovation, infrastructure, and research.
Dr. Bala Audu, president of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), underscored the value of international collaboration and education in retaining skilled healthcare
