Tinubu approves policy to retain healthcare workers, curb migration

President Bola Tinubu has approved the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, aiming to tackle the challenges posed by the shortage of human resources in Nigeria’s health sector.

This policy seeks to retain healthcare professionals and curb the migration of medical workers to other countries.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, announced the approval on his X handle.

He wrote;

“This afternoon, HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, in-Council, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.

The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources.

As the AU @_AfricanUnion Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr President’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system is powerfully reflected in this forward-looking policy.

This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it’s a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilized to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.

Central to this vision is the Nigeria Human Health Resource Program, which sets a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers, especially in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and rewards they deserve. By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria.

In an increasingly digital world, integrating advanced health technologies is essential. The policy’s focus on digital health infrastructure—including Electronic Medical Records (EMR), telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry—marks a significant step towards a more efficient, data-driven health system. These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring access to quality care for all Nigerians.

Capacity building is at the heart of this policy. It recognizes the importance of continuous professional development, with strategic partnerships and opportunities for international training to equip our healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills. This investment in human capital underscores our commitment to retaining and empowering our healthcare workforce.

The policy addresses the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from the Diaspora. By establishing streamlined registration processes and providing attractive incentives, the policy not only encourages the return of our talented professionals but actively reintegrates them into our health system. This approach leverages the expertise of our diaspora to bridge gaps within the health sector.

Also, the policy champions reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These bilateral and multilateral agreements are designed to protect national interests while respecting the rights and aspirations of our healthcare professionals. We call on recipient countries to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker to replace every publicly trained Nigerian worker they receive.

Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, especially for younger doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.

The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Program (#NHRHP) within @Fmohnigeria, in collaboration with state governments. This ensures responsible implementation and alignment with broader sector-wide (#SWAp) health objectives.

With this decisive action, the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration is set to secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Under Mr. President’s leadership, this policy will further catalyze the transformation of our health sector, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians.

As we embark on this journey, all stakeholders are invited to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects our nation’s potential and promise.”

The policy is part of a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system by ensuring that skilled professionals remain in the country, addressing both immediate and long-term healthcare needs.