President Tinubu Approves Policy To Retain Policy Experts Within The Nation

President Bola Tinubu has approved the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration to address the challenges affecting Nigeria’s healthcare human resources.

This was announced by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, on his X account on Monday.

Pate explained that the policy goes beyond merely responding to the ongoing departure of healthcare professionals; it is a comprehensive approach to managing, harnessing, and reversing the migration of health workers.

Pate stated, “This afternoon, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, in-Council, approved a landmark policy designed to revolutionize healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.

“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration tackles the pressing issues facing Nigeria’s healthcare human resources. As the AU Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr. President’s dedication to building a resilient and robust healthcare system is reflected in this forward-thinking policy.

“This policy is not just a reaction to the current exodus of healthcare professionals; it represents a comprehensive strategy to effectively manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately compensated, and optimally utilized to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.”

Many Nigerian healthcare workers are migrating abroad in search of better opportunities, leaving their colleagues to handle increased workloads and extended hours.

The push factors, according to them, are inadequate equipment, worsening insecurity, poor working conditions, and poor salary structure

The minister noted that central to this vision is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which sets a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers, especially in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and rewards they deserve.

“By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria.

“In an increasingly digital world, integrating advanced health technologies is essential. The policy’s focus on digital health infrastructure—including Electronic Medical Records, telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry—marks a significant step towards a more efficient, data-driven health system. These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring access to quality care for all Nigerians.

“Capacity building is at the heart of this policy. It recognizes the importance of continuous professional development, with strategic partnerships and opportunities for international training to equip our healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills. This investment in human capital underscores our commitment to retaining and empowering our healthcare workforce,” he stated.

He added that the policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the Diaspora.

He said by establishing streamlined registration processes and providing attractive incentives, the policy not only encourages the return of talented professionals but actively reintegrates them into the health system.

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

“Recognising the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, especially for younger doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.

“The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Programme within @Fmohnigeria, in collaboration with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide health objectives.

“With this decisive action, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is set to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under Mr. President’s leadership, this policy will further catalyze the transformation of our health sector, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians. As we embark on this journey, all stakeholders are invited to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects our nation’s potential and promise,” Pate noted.