The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has revealed that over 16,000 Nigerian doctors have migrated abroad within the last five to seven years in search of better career prospects.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at the seventh annual capacity-building workshop organized by the Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCA), Pate addressed the theme, *“Integrated Healthcare Regulation and Leadership in Building Resilient Health Systems.”*
He emphasized that the mass exodus of medical professionals has left Nigeria with a doctor-to-population ratio of just 3.9 per 10,000—far below the global benchmark.
Pate also noted that the estimated cost of training each doctor exceeds $21,000, underlining the economic impact of the ongoing brain drain on the country’s healthcare system.
He attributed the trend to more favorable economic conditions, improved work environments, and better research opportunities available in foreign countries.
“Over the last five to seven years, more than 16,000 Nigerian doctors are believed to have left the country, with many more departing in recent years. We’re also seeing a noticeable reduction in the number of nurses and midwives,” he said.
The minister warned that this ongoing migration has serious implications, especially for rural areas that are now severely underserved.
He expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu’s administration offers a chance to rethink and restructure policies governing the health workforce.
“Inspired by President Tinubu’s vision—recognized by the African Union as the Continental Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery—we are charting a new course for the country,” Pate stated.
“This vision envisions a prosperous and people-focused Nigeria that contributes to a thriving and peaceful continent, interconnected with its neighbors.
“With the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, we’re pursuing a strategic and ambitious path. A key part of this is the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration.
“This policy aims to manage the movement of health professionals in a dignified, data-driven, and evidence-based way. It’s not about restriction or giving up—but about balancing the right of professionals to seek global opportunities with our obligation to maintain a robust national health system.”
Pate concluded by noting that while the global shortage of healthcare workers is estimated at 18 million—particularly affecting the Global North—Nigeria’s approach focuses on responsible stewardship and sustainable solutions.