ABEOKUTA, Nigeria — The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Ogun State has raised alarm over what it described as a worsening shortage of medical doctors, revealing that only about 1,200 physicians are currently available to provide healthcare services for an estimated population of nine million residents.
The association said the shortage has placed enormous pressure on healthcare facilities across the state, with doctors attending to far more patients than recommended. According to the NMA, the growing imbalance between the number of doctors and the population is affecting the quality of healthcare delivery and increasing the workload of medical professionals in both public and private health institutions.
Speaking on the situation, the association attributed the shortage to the continued migration of Nigerian doctors to other countries in search of better salaries, improved working conditions and greater career opportunities. The trend, popularly referred to as the “Japa” phenomenon, has significantly reduced the number of qualified medical practitioners available to serve local communities.
The NMA warned that unless urgent action is taken, the shortage could further strain the healthcare system and make it more difficult for residents to access timely medical attention. It noted that doctors remaining in the country are increasingly burdened with long working hours, staff shortages and limited medical resources, factors that contribute to burnout and reduced efficiency.
The association called on the Ogun State Government and the Federal Government to implement measures aimed at retaining healthcare professionals. These include improving salaries and welfare packages, providing modern medical equipment, creating opportunities for career advancement and ensuring safer working environments for doctors and other healthcare workers.
The NMA also stressed the need to recruit more medical personnel into public hospitals while expanding training opportunities for young doctors. It argued that strengthening the health workforce is essential to meeting the healthcare needs of the state’s growing population and reducing pressure on existing personnel.
Medical experts have repeatedly expressed concern over Nigeria’s doctor-to-patient ratio, which remains below international recommendations. Thousands of Nigerian-trained doctors have relocated abroad in recent years, leaving many hospitals struggling with inadequate manpower and increasing demands for healthcare services.
The association further urged governments at all levels to prioritise investment in the health sector by upgrading healthcare facilities and improving conditions of service. It said such reforms would not only help retain skilled professionals but also encourage qualified doctors working abroad to consider returning to practice in Nigeria.
Despite the challenges, the NMA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring residents continue to receive quality medical care. However, it maintained that sustained government intervention is necessary to reverse the growing shortage and strengthen healthcare delivery across Ogun State.
Healthcare stakeholders believe addressing the shortage of doctors will require coordinated efforts involving government, professional bodies and development partners. They say improving funding, expanding recruitment and introducing policies that encourage medical professionals to remain in the country will be critical to ensuring a stronger and more resilient healthcare system for the future.
