President Bola Tinubu has given the green light to the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, a strategic initiative aimed at addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals in Nigeria.
This announcement was made by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, on his X (formerly Twitter) account. According to Pate, the policy is not just a reaction to the ongoing exodus of healthcare workers but a comprehensive plan to manage, harness, and eventually reverse the trend of health worker migration.
In his statement, Pate said, "This afternoon, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, approved a landmark policy that will revolutionize healthcare human resource management in Nigeria. The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration tackles the critical issues facing our health sector’s human resources. As the AU Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, the President's dedication to a resilient and robust healthcare system is clearly demonstrated through this forward-looking policy."
The minister explained that central to this policy is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which outlines a framework for regularly reviewing the working conditions of healthcare professionals. This ensures that those serving in rural and underserved areas receive the recognition and rewards they deserve.
“By creating an environment that fosters professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria,”Pate added.
In an era of increasing digitalization, the policy emphasizes the integration of advanced health technologies, including Electronic Medical Records, telehealth services, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry. These innovations are designed to streamline healthcare delivery and improve the equitable distribution of healthcare workers, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all Nigerians.
The policy also places a strong focus on capacity building, recognizing the importance of continuous professional development. Strategic partnerships and opportunities for international training are being prioritized to equip healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to retaining and empowering its workforce.
Additionally, the policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the Diaspora. By establishing streamlined registration processes and offering attractive incentives, the policy not only encourages the return of these professionals but also ensures their effective reintegration into the Nigerian health system. This approach leverages the expertise of the diaspora to fill critical gaps within the sector.
The policy also promotes reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of healthcare workers benefits Nigeria. For every publicly trained Nigerian worker received by another country, the policy calls for a 1:1 match in training, safeguarding Nigeria’s national interests.
Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for regular health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, especially for younger doctors. These measures are intended to create a supportive work environment, reduce burnout, and enhance job satisfaction.
The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Programme, in collaboration with state governments, ensuring responsible implementation and alignment with broader health sector objectives.
With this decisive action, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is poised to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, this policy is expected to catalyze further transformation in the health sector, ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality healthcare. As this journey begins, all stakeholders are encouraged to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects Nigeria’s vast potential and promise.
