Professor Mahmud Raji, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the National Hospital, Abuja (NHA), has disclosed that over 500 personnel have resigned from the hospital in the past two years, with many seeking better job opportunities abroad.
Expressing concern over the brain drain phenomenon, Raji highlighted the emotional and financial toll of losing trained professionals invested in by the Nigerian government. He lamented the departure of experienced doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and other healthcare practitioners, emphasising the loss of valuable expertise and potential mentors within the system.
He said, ““The way they leave is a very hurtful thing for all hospital administrators. The most pitiful and worrisome aspect of it is the amount of money the Nigerian government has invested in each of these individuals, either a doctor, a nurse, a pharmacist, a physiotherapist, or whoever it is that leaves.”
Raji underscored the ongoing challenge of inadequate equipment, which further exacerbates the situation as healthcare professionals feel demoralised by the lack of necessary resources to effectively carry out their duties.
“Nurses have also left from the middle cadre and the younger ones. Some of our medical engineers are hotcakes outside and have left. I must tell you, Nigeria trains people so much; Nigerian graduates and staff are well sought after all over,” Raji added.
However, he expressed optimism regarding the current administration’s efforts to address these issues, hoping for a shift in mindset among Nigerian health professionals. Raji emphasised the need to attract and retain talent within the country while also creating an environment conducive to their professional growth and satisfaction.
In an attempt to mitigate staff departures, the NHA has implemented various strategies, including welfare initiatives and cooperative schemes, to support staff financially and enhance their overall well-being. While acknowledging limitations in altering remuneration, Raji emphasised efforts to address other aspects of staff welfare to foster a conducive working environment.