Professor Bala Audu, President of the Nigerian Medical Association, warned on September 30, 2025, that Nigeria is a prime target for foreign governments seeking skilled doctors.
Recruiters now visit Nigeria to hire specialists like obstetricians, offering better pay and facilities.
Worsening Shortage
Audu highlighted Nigeria’s growing population and high maternal mortality rates, driven by a loss of skilled doctors.
Poor working conditions and inadequate infrastructure push professionals abroad, where some fields like paediatrics have more Nigerian doctors than at home.
Government Inaction
Despite policies to improve healthcare, Audu criticized the government’s failure to enhance doctors’ welfare. “Two job offers: one cares for you, one doesn’t. Which do you pick?” he asked, urging action to retain talent.
Maternal Health Risks
The exodus threatens maternal care, with fewer specialists to handle pregnancies. Audu stressed that better facilities, nutrition, and comprehensive strategies are vital to reduce deaths.
Call for Action
Audu urged the government to implement existing healthcare policies and invest in infrastructure. He called for public awareness about why doctors leave, beyond just noting their departure.
Why It Matters
Nigeria’s healthcare system faces collapse without urgent reforms. Losing doctors to global recruiters weakens care for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and infants.
What’s Next
Without swift government intervention, Nigeria risks a deeper healthcare crisis in 2025, with rising mortality and strained services.
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