“Japa syndrome” — attribute of government’s failure to health workers — NMA

The President of the National Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Bala Audu, has on October 28, 2024, stated that the ongoing brain drain among health professionals in Nigeria is a direct result of inept government policies.

Dr. Audu made these remarks during a press conference marking the 2024 National Physicians’ Week.

Themed “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea for Talent Retention in the Healthcare System”, the event was held at NMA office in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Speaking, Audu called on authorities at all levels to consistently implement Consolidated Medical Salary Structure.

Speaking through the association’s state chairman, Happy Adedapo, Audu emphasized the urgency of settling all outstanding salary upgrade arrears.

He noted that the mass departure of health professionals, often referred to as the “brain drain,” is rooted not only in individual choices but in a healthcare system such as is obtained in Nigeria.

He described the healthcare system as one that fails to provide adequate compensation, good welfare system, and professional growth opportunities.

“When healthcare workers receive fair and equitable pay, they feel valued and respected,” he noted.

He added further that this sense of respect leads to increased dedication, strengthened commitment to patient care, and overall enhancements to the health ecosystem.

Audu decried the existing financial disparities faced by healthcare workers in Nigeria, stating:

“Despite our progress, pay structures differ significantly based on location, institution, and job category’.

“This inconsistency creates a fragmented remuneration system that poses challenges for healthcare professionals,” he cried.

He pushed further that the inconsistency has made it difficult for Nigeria to compete effectively on a global scale.

Addressing these inconsistencies is crucial for attracting and retaining talent in the healthcare sector, he said.

He stressed the necessity for substantial investments in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.

He also demanded improved working conditions for healthcare professionals, as well as the prioritization of health in national policy.

Audu insisted that Nigeria is endowed with talented and passionate health workers capable of achieving remarkable feats.

“What is needed now is support and investment from our leaders worldwide.

Nations understand the value of fair compensation and invest in competitive salary packages and appealing benefits to retain healthcare talent.

“Nigeria must acknowledge that its healthcare professionals, like any global workforce, are mobile. We cannot compete for talent unless we offer fair, transparent, and universally applicable compensation.

Failing to do so will result in the loss of our most skilled and capable individuals to countries willing to invest in their workforce,” he concluded.

Advice from Doctors in Abia State

In light of the healthcare brain drain crisis, doctors in Abia are calling for reforms to tackle the issue of Japa syndrome.

They assert that they are in a position to provide recommendations to various governments and urge them to foster an environment conducive to retaining young doctors in the country.

Dr. Macauley emphasized the necessity of addressing the personal needs of healthcare professionals and ensuring they have access to adequate equipment for their practice.

He indicated that supporting these factors is essential to prevent migration and as well increase the passion of the health workers.

The President-elect of the College, Dr. Mamadou Mourtalla, further highlighted the urgency of the situation.

Dr.  Mourtalla stated that brain drain in the health sector is a pressing concern that demands immediate government action.

He noted that while Africa is home to many dedicated and well-trained doctors, it is troubling that young professionals often seek opportunities in countries that did not invest in their training.

According to him, the best approach to retain these doctors is to address the challenges they face, enabling them to fully contribute to their communities.

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