Policy approved by Tinubu to retain health workers

President Bola Tinubu has endorsed a new national policy aimed at reducing the migration of the health workforce, on August 12, 2024.

Ali Pate, the coordinating minister of health and social welfare, described the policy as a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse the migration of health workers. 

He made this announcement in a statement yesterday.

The minister also mentioned that the policy aims to attract professionals back to Nigeria with appealing incentives. 

It will also facilitate their reintegration into the nation’s health system.

“This approach leverages the expertise of our diaspora to bridge gaps within the health sector,” the statement reads.

“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.”

The minister stated that the policy acknowledges the importance of work-life balance.

It includes provisions for regular health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, particularly for younger doctors.

“These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction,” Pate said.

“The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Program (NHRHP) within @Fmohnigeria, in collaboration with state governments.

“This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide (SWAp) health objectives.”

The “Japa Syndrome”

The term “Japa Syndrome” refers to the mass migration of Nigerian healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.

Poor working conditions, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, and insufficient salaries in Nigeria drive this trend.

This trend has severely impacted the country’s healthcare system, leading to overworked remaining staff and diminished healthcare services.

In response to this crisis, President Bola Tinubu recently approved a National Policy on Health Workforce Migration.

This policy addresses the root causes of health worker migration with a comprehensive strategy.

It aims to retain talent within Nigeria and encourage the return of Nigerian healthcare professionals from abroad.

Key components of the policy

Improving Working Conditions: The policy focuses on regularly reviewing and improving the working conditions of healthcare workers, especially in underserved and rural areas.

This includes better pay, adequate recognition, and proper rewards for their services.

Leveraging Technology: The policy emphasizes integrating advanced health technologies, such as Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and telehealth, to enhance healthcare delivery.

It also aims to ensure a more equitable distribution of health workers across the country.

Capacity Building: Continuous professional development is a central aspect of the policy.

This includes international training partnerships, ensuring Nigerian healthcare professionals gain the latest skills and knowledge.

Return and Reintegration: The policy also aims to make it easier for Nigerian healthcare professionals abroad to return and reintegrate into the Nigerian health system.

Streamlined registration processes and attractive incentives are being put in place to encourage this.

Bilateral Agreements: The policy ensures reciprocal agreements with countries hosting Nigerian health workers, benefiting Nigeria through these exchanges.

One significant proposal is the “1:1 match” policy, where recipient countries train one health worker to replace each Nigerian worker they employ.

The NHRHP oversees the implementation of this policy.

They work in collaboration with state governments to ensure alignment with broader health sector objectives and effective governance.

This policy is a crucial step in securing Nigeria’s healthcare future by creating a supportive environment for healthcare professionals.

It aims to reduce the incentives for them to leave the country.

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