- Tinubu approved the National Policy of Health Workforce Migration to retain medical professionals in the country
- Minister of Health, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate revealed the the policy will be governed by the National Human Resources for Health Program (NHRHP)
- Nigerians react, request to see policy document
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the National Policy of Health Workforce Migration to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources.
The MInister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, shared this information on his X handle @muhammadpate on Monday, August 12.
Pate revealed that the policy is a that will ensure that the medical workforce is well-supported, adequately rewarded and optimally utilised to meet the healthcare needs of Nigerians. He also added that it is not only a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals but also a strategy to manage and reverse health worker migration.
He posted: “This afternoon, HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, in-Council, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria. The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources.
“As the AU @_AfricanUnion Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr President’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system is powerfully reflected in this forward-looking policy.
“This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it’s a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilized to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.
“Central to this vision is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Program, 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 (EMR), 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 added that the policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the Diaspora and by establishing streamlined registration processes and providing attractive incentives, the policy not only encourages the return of our talented professionals but actively reintegrates them into our health system.
Pate explained further that this approach leverages the expertise of our diaspora to bridge gaps within the health sector.
He added: “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.
“Recognizing 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 Program (#NHRHP) within @Fmohnigeria, in collaboration with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide (#SWAp) 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.”
Nigerians react to National Policy of Health Workforce Migration
While commending the federal government for the good initiative, some Nigerians requested to see or read the policy document, while others didn’t take it seriously because according to them, the federal government has a bad track record with implementing policies.
Here are some of the comments:
@SheikhAnalo posted: “Pls, where is the policy document 🙏🏽”
@Drsaintdikachi posted: “You are just saying too many things with no tangible point or points.”
@djokaymegamixer posted: “It's funny how Nigeria's political class know what to do but rather chase shadows. Pay doctors & nurses a quarter of what you minister & national assembly members take home every month, give them tools to work with, provide them as much security as yours & watch the japa cease.”’
@ol3ol posted:”This appears to be comprehensive. Please share a link to the policy document.”
@kcemenike posted: “So let me ask again, in simple English sir, WHAT EXACTLY IS THE CONTENT OF THE POLICY? Or let me be more empirical - Please can you share the policy document? So far, what you have just typed looks like grammatical spaghetti. Please sir help us with policy document🙏🏿”
@ohmynursing posted: “And where is the Policy for everyone to read? Or have we "embedded" some dark things in it as usual and kept it away from public eye?”
@BSherifdeen posted: “Thanks for this laudable initiative. When can we expect the policy document for public digestion? @Fmohnigeria”
@Lewis0075 posted: “With due respect. The Nigerian health sector will never achieve the desired results as far as people in authority seek better health services outside the country 😥. Unless we have a policy that ensures the President and everyone is treated in the country to stop medical tourism.”
@LereBaale posted: “The Ministry of Health is leading great initiatives under able leadership to transform our healthcare. Congratulations to the minister and his entire team of transformation leaders.”
@dr_akinj posted: “Who has this policy document?”
@MrJohnDir posted: “Policy implementation is a big problem in this country, most especially in this administration.”
President Bola Tinubu appoints new heads of key agencies in Humanitarian Affairs Ministry
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu approved the appointment of seven distinguished Nigerians to head critical agencies and initiatives within the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development in Abuja, The appointments were announced in a statement on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, by the Presidency.
These appointments aim to strengthen the ministry's efforts in addressing humanitarian challenges and fostering social development across the nation.