The General Managing Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Professor Chris Bode, has underscored the critical need for increased funding to stem the exodus of healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities abroad. He emphasized that without substantial investment in the healthcare sector, Nigeria risks exacerbating its already severe shortage of medical personnel.
During LUTH’s 62nd anniversary celebrations, Professor Bode highlighted the alarming trend of Nigerian healthcare workers migrating overseas, a phenomenon locally referred to as the “Japa syndrome.” He noted that this migration is depleting the nation’s medical workforce, with one doctor available for every 4,000 Nigerians—far below the World Health Organization’s recommended ratio of one doctor per 600 people.
Professor Bode attributed the primary cause of this migration to inadequate remuneration, with 91% of healthcare workers citing low pay as their reason for leaving. He questioned how individuals who have invested nearly three decades in training can be expected to accept meager salaries. He also identified poor working conditions, insecurity, and limited career prospects as additional factors driving healthcare professionals abroad.
In response to these challenges, Professor Bode called on the government to enhance salaries, improve working conditions, and invest in rural infrastructure to encourage healthcare workers to remain in the country. He emphasized that addressing these issues is essential for the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The anniversary event also featured discussions on the impact of brain drain on the healthcare system, with participants agreeing on the need for collective action to address the crisis. The event concluded with the recognition of the best clinical and non-clinical departments over the past year.
