The Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, has recruited 518 health professionals to address the challenges posed by the ‘japa syndrome’ and enhance healthcare delivery.
Prof. Ahmed Umdagas, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of ABUTH, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday. He noted that the migration of healthcare professionals abroad, popularly referred to as ‘japa syndrome,’ has caused a significant shortage of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other health workers at the facility.
“We have completed the exercise, and by the first quarter of 2025, the hospital will welcome 518 additional staff members to improve the human resources for health,” Umdagas explained.
He expressed optimism that the recruitment would substantially improve healthcare delivery and outcomes at ABUTH.
The CMD also highlighted the hospital’s commitment to manpower development, revealing that more than 460 staff members have undergone local and international training programs. These efforts aim to improve patient care and will be expanded in 2025.
Recently, the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) conducted a training session at ABUTH to enhance patient care standards.
Prof. Umdagas emphasised the importance of partnerships in advancing healthcare outcomes. He cited an ongoing collaboration with the University of Miami, USA, on ovarian cancer treatment. The research initiative will involve 70 patients worldwide, with ABUTH assessing 20 patients. Of these, 10 will receive treatment in the Bahamas, while the remaining 40 will be assessed at the University of Miami.
Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital is a leading medical institution affiliated with Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. It is renowned for its excellence in medical training, research, and healthcare delivery. ABUTH offers specialised care in surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, and oncology, serving patients from Northern Nigeria and beyond.