The Federal Government of Nigeria has vowed to reverse the “japa” trend, which refers to the mass migration of health professionals, particularly doctors, from Nigeria to other countries.
According to the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the government is working to address the economic challenges driving this trend through reforms and policy changes.
Dr. Salako emphasized that the challenge of ‘japa’ in the health sector is primarily an economic one, but expressed optimism that the trend will eventually be reversed.
He noted that health workers are among the highest-paid public servants in the country, reflecting the government’s prioritization and value of healthcare professionals.
To address the shortage of healthcare professionals, the government plans to increase the number of medical schools and training programs, as well as provide incentives for healthcare professionals to stay in the country.
This includes offering credit facilities, tax holidays, and special mortgage facilities to encourage health workers to establish functional private healthcare centers and own homes.
The government’s efforts to reverse the ‘japa’ trend are part of a broader plan to enhance local medical practice and create a supportive environment for healthcare professionals.
With the support of healthcare professionals and stakeholders, the government aims to create an environment that encourages health professionals to stay and contribute to the development of the country’s health sector.
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