President Bola Tinubu has approved the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, aiming to tackle the pressing challenges plaguing Nigeria’s health sector.
The announcement came from the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, who shared the news on his X handle on Monday.
Pate emphasized that this policy is not merely a reactive measure to the alarming flight of healthcare professionals; it represents a holistic strategy designed to manage, harness, and ultimately reverse the trend of health worker migration, ensuring that Nigeria retains its vital medical talent.
Pate said, “This afternoon, HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, in-Council, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.
“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources. As the AU Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr President’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system is powerfully reflected in this forward-looking policy.
“This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it’s a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilised to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.”
In Nigeria, a silent exodus is underway as skilled healthcare workers seek better opportunities abroad, leaving their overwhelmed colleagues to grapple with increased workloads and endless call hours. The reasons behind this daunting trend are stark: inadequate equipment, escalating insecurity, deteriorating working conditions, and a dismal salary structure.
Amid these challenges, the health minister emphasized the launch of the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme. This ambitious initiative aims to reshape the future by establishing a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers—especially those toiling in rural and underserved areas—finally receive the recognition and rewards they so desperately deserve.
“By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria.
“In an increasingly digital world, integrating advanced health technologies is essential. The policy’s focus on digital health infrastructure—including Electronic Medical Records, telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry—marks a significant step towards a more efficient, data-driven health system. These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring access to quality care for all Nigerians.
“Capacity building is at the heart of this policy. It recognises the importance of continuous professional development, with strategic partnerships and opportunities for international training to equip our healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills. This investment in human capital underscores our commitment to retaining and empowering our healthcare workforce,” he stated.
He added that the policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the Diaspora.
He said by establishing streamlined registration processes and providing attractive incentives, the policy not only encourages the return of talented professionals but actively reintegrates them into the health system.
“This approach leverages the expertise of our diaspora to bridge gaps within the health sector. Also, the policy champions reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These bilateral and multilateral agreements are designed to protect national interests while respecting the rights and aspirations of our healthcare professionals. We call on recipient countries to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker to replace every publicly trained Nigerian worker they receive.
“Recognising the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, especially for younger doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.
“The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Programme within @Fmohnigeria, in collaboration with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide health objectives.
“With this decisive action, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is set to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under Mr President’s leadership, this policy will further catalyse the transformation of our health sector, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians. As we embark on this journey, all stakeholders are invited to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects our nation’s potential and promise,” Pate noted.
