Nigerian Health Workers Overseas Consider Return with Improved Infrastructure, Says Health Minister

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, has revealed that successful Nigerian doctors, nurses, and health workers abroad are contemplating returning to Nigeria. Pate highlighted that these health workers are willing to come back if the necessary infrastructure is provided to enable them to perform their jobs effectively.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Pate noted, “Some that have been successful are also beginning to think of how to come back if the enabling infrastructure is provided.”

He acknowledged the dedication of many health workers who have chosen to remain in Nigeria despite the opportunity to work abroad, where better pay and welfare packages are guaranteed. Pate also highlighted the phenomenon of Nigerian health professionals seeking training abroad with the intention of returning home to contribute to the healthcare sector.

Addressing the issue of the ‘Japa’ phenomenon, which has seen the migration of thousands of young health workers in recent years, Pate emphasized that the government is committed to creating a conducive environment for health professionals to stay and practice in Nigeria.

Pate highlighted the importance of human resources in the health sector, stating, “The lifeblood of the health sector is the human resource. That is the most important ingredient.” He noted that while there are approximately 300,000 health professionals working in Nigeria, including doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists, there is a distribution challenge, with most doctors and high professionals concentrated in Lagos, Abuja, and a few other urban centres.

The government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and create a conducive environment for health workers are aimed at addressing this distribution challenge and retaining talent within the country.

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