Health sector brain drain in Nigeria alarming: Obaseki

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo has decried brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector post-COVID-19.

Mr Obaseki stated this when he hosted members of the Association of Nigeria physicians in the Americas (ANPA) in the state for a medical mission to a launch of ‘New Festival Hall’, Edo Government House.

According to him, the brain drain among healthcare professionals affects the delivery of healthcare services in Nigeria.

“You are doing something quite revolutionary.

“This is the first physical mission post-COVID-19. Post-COVID-19, the world has changed particularly in the healthcare system,” stated the Edo governor. “The pressure COVID-19 has put on our healthcare system is unimaginable. The amount of brain drain in our healthcare system is frightening.”

He added, “This mission is one response to this brain drain crisis. Healthcare is all about the people, and we are blessed as a state as we have many health professionals, and we are happy for the partnership.”

Mr Obaseki urged the medical practitioners not to listen to political detractors during their one week of free medical services in Edo.

ANPA president Christopher Okunseri said it would go on an advocacy mission to the National Assembly for an increase in the healthcare budget for Nigeria.

He also said it would focus on reversing brain drain to brain gain.

(NAN)