Lagos Commissioner Calls for Improved Working Conditions to Stem Brain Drain in Medical Profession

In a bid to address the growing brain drain in Nigeria’s medical profession, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, has emphasized the need to make the environment more attractive and inspiring for medical professionals. Abayomi made this statement during the 48th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meetings of the Nigerian Society for Haematology and Blood Transfusion in Ibadan.

According to Abayomi, the current situation in Nigeria is driving many doctors to seek opportunities abroad. He shared a personal experience, saying that some doctors have even called him to express their desire to return to Nigeria, but are deterred by the challenging environment. "You start to wonder: what am I still doing in this country?" he said. "You want to buy fuel, some petrol attendants fill your tank with water and you get to Lagos, your driver takes the wrong way, and LASTMA officials jump in front of your car and escort you to a random place. You are wondering whether you are being kidnapped. The next thing you do is to go to the airport, get a ticket, and get out of the country."

Abayomi highlighted the shortage of medical professionals in Nigeria, stating that there are only about 3.9 doctors to 10,000 people in the country. He also noted that there is an average of only one pathologist to 500,000-1 million people. To address this issue, he advised both the government and medical practitioners to create more opportunities for specialist training and engage in the mass production of medical professionals.

The Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Professor Jesse Otegbayo, also spoke at the event, acknowledging the critical role that haematology plays in the healthcare system of Nigeria. He praised haematologists and blood transfusion specialists for their tireless work in diagnosing, treating, and managing blood disorders, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

The Lagos State Commissioner’s call for improved working conditions is a timely reminder of the need for Nigeria to prioritize the welfare and development of its medical professionals. By creating a more conducive environment, the country can stem the brain drain and retain its talented medical professionals, ultimately improving the healthcare system for its citizens.