Federal Government Launches Initiative to Engage Nigerian Healthcare Professionals Abroad

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to harnessing the expertise of Nigerian healthcare professionals in the Diaspora to enhance healthcare delivery and create jobs for the nation’s youth.

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This announcement was made by Honourable Minister of State at the Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa during the Stakeholders’ Forum for the Implementation of the Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora Plus Engagement Programme.

In a statement signed by Deputy Director ( Information & PR) Alaba Balogun, Dr. Alausa emphasized that the forum is part of a long-term strategy to facilitate knowledge transfer and repatriation of skills back to Nigeria.

“This partnership will not only improve healthcare delivery but will also transform our healthcare sector into a significant contributor to our Gross Domestic Product”. He said.

“In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the initiative aims to tackle the challenges facing the healthcare sector while generating employment for the country’s rapidly growing population. “We are committed to unlocking the potential of our health professionals abroad for the benefit of our nation”. Dr. Alausa added.

The Honourable Minister outlined a four-point strategic health agenda aimed at reforming the Nigerian healthcare system. “Our agenda is built around four essential pillars: Effective Governance, Efficient and Equitable Health Systems, Unlocking Value Chains, and Health Security”. He stated.

According to Dr. Alausa, these pillars are integral to achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030. “Together, these pillars form the backbone of the Nigeria Renewed Hope Health Sector Strategic Blueprint, which aims to address the root causes of our health system’s shortcomings”. He noted.

He highlighted the significance of the third pillar, Unlocking the Value Chain, which seeks to elevate the healthcare sector’s contribution to the economy. “By unlocking the value chain, we aim not only to improve healthcare delivery but also to create jobs for our rapidly growing population,” he explained.

In addition, Dr. Alausa reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to promoting local drug, vaccine, and diagnostic manufacturing. “We invite our Diaspora partners to collaborate on research that will elevate healthcare standards and place Nigeria at the forefront of medical advancements in Africa”. He affirmed.

The Director of the Public Private Partnership/Diaspora Unit, Professor Sydney Ibeanusi elaborated on the program’s goal to leverage the vast experience and expertise of Diaspora health professionals. “This Stakeholders’ Engagement Programme is crucial for strengthening our health sector”.

The Chief Medical Director of NISA Premier Medical Group, Dr. Ibrahim Wada presented key insights into the potential of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system. “PPP models can drive efficiency and innovation in our health sector”. He remarked.

Other notable speakers included Prof. Bala Audu, President of the Nigeria Medical Association, who underscored the importance of collaboration between local and Diaspora health professionals.

Engr. Yakubu Sule from the Nigeria Diaspora Commission also spoke on the necessity of engaging Nigerians abroad in the nation’s healthcare reform efforts.

The initiative seeks to forge a stronger bond between Nigerian health professionals at home and abroad, driving advancements that can improve health outcomes and economic prospects for all Nigerians.

“Together, we can build a healthier future for Nigeria,” Dr. Alausa said, closing the forum with an optimistic outlook for the partnership.