Nigerian Government Begs Over 600 Newly Inducted Foreign-Trained Doctors Not To Travel Overseas
Instead, the government urged them to prioritise patient care, uphold ethical standards, and contribute to improving Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The Nigerian government has appealed to the over 600 newly inducted foreign-trained medical and dental practitioners to resist the growing trend of migrating abroad for better working conditions, popularly referred to as “japa syndrome.”
Instead, the government urged them to prioritise patient care, uphold ethical standards, and contribute to improving Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The plea was made during the induction ceremony of 622 foreign-trained doctors and dentists organised by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) in Abuja on Thursday.
Among the inductees, 606 were medical doctors, while 16 were dentists, with over 70% of the candidates passing their qualifying examinations.
Prof. Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, underscored the critical role of healthcare professionals in national development.
He encouraged the new doctors to remain dedicated to their calling, emphasising the need for their expertise in revitalizing the country’s struggling healthcare system.
“The profession you are stepping into is central to our nation’s development. Your skills are needed here to save lives and ensure better health outcomes for all Nigerians,” Pate said.
The Minister of Health, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, has called on newly inducted medical practitioners to approach their profession with compassion, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility.
Speaking during the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) induction ceremony, the Minister also advised the inductees to resist the growing trend of migration among healthcare professionals.
“The government and the health sector are working toward delivering quality and safe care. For years, citizens have raised concerns about the state of our healthcare system. With over 600 new doctors joining the profession today, your role is critical in addressing these challenges,” he stated.
The Minister emphasised the immense trust society places in healthcare professionals, urging the inductees to take their responsibilities seriously.
“As doctors and dentists, you must demonstrate empathy, resilience, and adaptability in an ever-evolving field. Whether innovating technologies or addressing the needs of a diverse population, your work directly impacts lives,” he added.
Acknowledging the trend of professionals seeking opportunities abroad, the Minister urged the graduates to remain in Nigeria and contribute to the development of the health sector.
“Let us build a better image for our healthcare system and our nation. Please, don’t Japa (migrate). Stay and help make a difference,” he appealed.
Prof Afolabi Lesi, MDCN Chairman, echoed this sentiment, stating the government’s efforts to improve conditions for health professionals.
He encouraged the inductees to participate in national health initiatives and community outreach programmes to address healthcare disparities.
“The Federal Government is committed to enhancing healthcare delivery. Your collaboration with other professionals, policymakers, and administrators is essential in fostering a more efficient system. Together, we can transform healthcare in Nigeria,” Lesi stated.
Lesi also commended the graduates and their families for their dedication, reiterating the MDCN’s support for their professional development.
Fatima Kyari, MDCN Registrar, underscored the importance of professionalism and adherence to ethics. She reminded the new practitioners of the council’s mechanisms for accountability and the need to uphold high standards in their practice.
“Your diverse training experiences are a valuable asset to Nigeria’s healthcare system. Use them to enrich the sector and ensure equitable access to quality care,” Kyari said.
