The Federal Government has approved a new National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, aiming to address Nigeria’s healthcare human resources challenges. Announced by Health Minister Ali Pate, the policy seeks to reverse the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals and improve the management of health worker migration.
The policy, approved during a Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, includes measures to streamline registration processes for returning professionals, offer incentives, and integrate them into Nigeria’s health system. It also focuses on establishing reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure mutual benefits in health worker exchange.
Central to the policy is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which will regularly review working conditions and provide support for health professionals, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, the policy emphasizes the need for advanced health technologies and continuous professional development.
The policy addresses critical factors driving health worker migration, such as inadequate equipment and poor working conditions, by promoting better work-life balance, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours.
The National Human Resources for Health Programme will oversee the policy’s implementation, in collaboration with state governments, to ensure it meets broader health sector objectives and improves access to quality healthcare for Nigerians.
