Health

Dr Tunji Alausa Urges Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora to Collaborate for National Development

Published

1 month ago

Oct 10, 2024.

The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Morufu Tunji Alausa, has called on Nigerian health professionals abroad to unite and collaborate for the development of the nation’s healthcare system.

Dr Alausa made this call on Thursday at the Stakeholders’ Forum for the Implementation of the Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora Plus Engagement Programme in Abuja.

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Addressing distinguished guests and participants, Dr. Alausa stressed the importance of diaspora health professionals in driving healthcare reforms that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Your wealth of knowledge, skills, and experience is invaluable to our nation’s growth,” he said.

He acknowledged the dedication of those in the diaspora who continue to engage with Nigeria, stating that their commitment reflects the vision of the current administration to leverage expertise for national advancement.

Dr Alausa highlighted the government’s recent diagnostic assessment of the health sector, which led to the development of a 4-point strategic health agenda focused on effective governance, equitable health systems, unlocking value chains, and health security.

The minister particularly underscored the third pillar—Unlocking the Value Chain—stating, “This initiative aims to transform our healthcare sector into a significant contributor to the nation’s GDP, similar to what we see in developed economies.”

He outlined the government’s commitment to local drug manufacturing, medical technology, and quality research, inviting diaspora professionals to collaborate in these efforts.

Dr Alausa also addressed the ongoing challenge of “brain drain,” acknowledging that while the emigration of skilled healthcare professionals poses a threat to achieving Universal Health Coverage, it also presents an opportunity for knowledge exchange and capacity building.

His words, “The gaps in our healthcare service delivery system has been exacerbated by the continued emigration of our healthcare workforce.”

The “brain drain” phenomenon is one that we have all become too familiar with, and it poses a major threat to our efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

“We all know that Nigeria boasts one of the largest and most dynamic Diaspora communities in the world, particularly in the field of healthcare.”

“Nigerian doctors, nurses, pharmacists, researchers, and allied health professionals are leading lights in major hospitals, universities, and research institutions across the globe.”