Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) of Nigeria’s tertiary health institutions have raised alarms about the mass exodus of doctors, nurses, and skilled health workers due to poor remuneration. Despite federal government investments in health infrastructure, hospitals are at risk of becoming empty.

The CMD of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Professor Wasiu Adeyemo, and the CMD of University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Professor Jesse Abiodun, shared their concerns during the 2025 budget defense session before the House of Representatives Committee on Health Institutions.

Prof. Adeyemo highlighted the alarming rate at which medical professionals are leaving the country. “We are going to have all our hospitals empty in the next one or two years if nothing is done,” he warned, pointing out that consultants are earning less than $1,000. He stressed the need to address the issue of remuneration to prevent further staff departures.

LUTH’s 2024 budget was N19.2 billion, with personnel costs amounting to N13.57 billion. Despite a 91% personnel performance rate, capital projects faced a 55% shortfall. For 2025, the proposed budget for LUTH is N32.7 billion, with a higher allocation for personnel.

Prof. Abiodun of UCH also lamented the delay in the release of funds, which has hindered hospital operations. UCH’s 2024 capital appropriation of N5.6 billion saw only 38% of the funds released, leaving a significant balance unutilized.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Health Institutions, Hon. Patrick Umoh, urged the CMDs to provide clear and thorough presentations of their budgets and challenges. He also expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Nigeria’s tertiary health institutions.

As the health sector grapples with these challenges, CMDs continue to push for solutions to prevent a further loss of skilled professionals and ensure the sustainability of hospitals.