As the world approaches the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nigeria faces a pressing challenge: the ongoing loss of skilled health professionals threatens its ability to meet critical health targets.
The Human Resource Crisis in Healthcare
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of 4.45 skilled health workers per 1,000 people. Nigeria currently falls short, with only 1.83 per 1,000, and its population is projected to exceed 263 million by 2030, further straining the healthcare system.
Between 2008 and 2021, over 36,000 Nigerian doctors migrated to the UK alone. Additionally, from 2021 to 2024, more than 42,000 nurses left for opportunities abroad.
Consequences on Health Outcomes
The shortage of health workers has led to increased workloads for those remaining, diminished quality of care, and a reliance on informal or unregulated health providers. This situation has resulted in poor health outcomes:
- Maternal Mortality Ratio: 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020, ranking as the third-highest in Africa.
- Neonatal Mortality Rate: 34.3 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022, nearly three times higher than the SDG target of 12.
- Under-5 Mortality Rate: 107 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022, substantially exceeding the SDG target of 25.
Strategies for Improvement
To address these challenges, Nigeria must take bold, evidence-informed steps:
- Implement the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration: This policy aims to reverse brain drain by encouraging the return of health professionals from the diaspora. Effective implementation should include incentives such as streamlined reintegration processes, competitive remuneration, and improved working conditions.
- Invest in Healthcare Infrastructure: Upgrading facilities and ensuring the availability of essential medical supplies can improve job satisfaction and retention among health workers.
- Enhance Training and Professional Development: Providing continuous education and career advancement opportunities can motivate health professionals to remain in the country.
- Strengthen Retention Policies: Developing robust policies that address the root causes of migration, such as inadequate compensation and poor working conditions, is crucial for retaining skilled health workers.
Addressing the human resource crisis in Nigeria’s healthcare system is essential for achieving the SDGs by 2030. Through concerted efforts and strategic investments, Nigeria can build a resilient health workforce capable of delivering quality care to its growing population.
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