FEC approves national policy to address health workforce migration

By Kunle Sanni

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a new National Policy on Health Workforce Migration. The announcement was made by Minister of Health, Ali Pate, via his X account, reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling the challenges surrounding healthcare human resources in the country.

President Bola Tinubu presided over the FEC meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the policy was approved. While the Council did not provide an extensive briefing to reporters, it was reported that President Tinubu also commissioned 30 hybrid-powered CNG buses, highlighting the need to leverage Nigeria’s natural gas resources to advance the transportation sector and bolster the economy.

Minister Pate elaborated on the new policy, emphasizing its goal to encourage the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the diaspora. He stated that the policy aims to streamline registration processes and provide incentives to attract skilled professionals back to Nigeria, thereby strengthening the healthcare system.

“This comprehensive strategy is designed to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration, envisioning a thriving workforce that is well-supported and adequately rewarded,” Pate wrote.

Central to the policy is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Program, which will conduct regular reviews of working conditions to ensure that healthcare workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, receive the acknowledgment and rewards they deserve. The initiative aims to create an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, ultimately retaining top talent within Nigeria.

Recognizing the importance of digital transformation in healthcare, the policy emphasizes the integration of advanced health technologies, including Electronic Medical Records (EMR), telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry. These innovations are expected to streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all Nigerians.

Capacity building will be a focal point of the policy, with provisions for continuous professional development through strategic partnerships and international training opportunities. This investment underscores Nigeria’s commitment to retaining and empowering its healthcare workforce.

The policy also promotes the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from abroad by establishing streamlined registration processes and attractive incentives for their return. Moreover, it advocates for reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure mutual benefits in the exchange of health workers, calling for a 1:1 matching policy—training one worker to replace every publicly trained Nigerian worker received.

To support healthcare workers, the policy includes measures for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, particularly for younger doctors, aiming to create a supportive work environment that reduces burnout and enhances job satisfaction.

Oversight of the policy will be managed by the National Human Resources for Health Program (#NHRHP) in collaboration with state governments, ensuring responsible implementation aligned with broader health objectives.

With this landmark decision, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is poised to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the policy is expected to catalyze the transformation of the health sector, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians and inviting stakeholders to contribute to building a system that reflects the nation’s potential and promise.