Tinubu urges West African doctors to tackle medical brain drain
President Bola Tinubu has urged medical professionals across West Africa to develop practical solutions to the growing migration of skilled healthcare workers, warning that the trend is putting pressure on healthcare systems and limiting access to essential medical services.
Tinubu made the call on Thursday at the State House, Abuja, shortly after being conferred with a fellowship of the West African College of Physicians (WACP).
He urged the college’s leadership to use its forthcoming annual scientific meeting to address the challenge and develop sustainable measures to retain medical personnel across the subregion.
The President also called for stronger preventive measures against infectious diseases, citing the Ebola outbreak and the need for African countries to strengthen their preparedness for emerging health threats.
“We are more challenged in Africa than anywhere else, you know, and with the outbreak of Ebola now, we’re looking for a preventive action that will eliminate all these problems and infections,” he said.
Tinubu pledged his administration’s continued support for the medical profession and reaffirmed its commitment to reforms aimed at making healthcare more accessible, affordable and efficient for Nigerians.
He also commended the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, for his role in driving the reforms.
“We as a government are doing everything possible. Please help me congratulate the reform-oriented physician, Ali Pate, who has been doing a very good job,” the President said.
