The House of Representatives on Tuesday unveiled plans to investigate the problem of brain drain in the health sector with the view to curtail the trend.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion on ‘Need to address the problem of brain drain in the health sector’, sponsored by Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo
In his lead debate, Hon. Ukpong-Udoh expressed displeasure over the spate of massive brain drain in the health sector in recent years as many medical doctors and other health professionals have been leaving Nigeria for other countries in search of better living conditions.
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According to him: “The House also notes that the migration of health professionals has adverse effects on the healthcare system of the nation as it costs it much more than the benefits it derives from remittances by those diaspora professionals.
“The House further notes that in 2019, only 3.6% of the annual budget of N8.8 million was allocated to the health sector.
“The House is concerned that medical doctors and other health professionals are frustrated as lack of investments in the health sector, where a paucity of equipment and frequent strikes prevent them from doing their job to the best of their abilities.”
To this end, the House directed joint House Committees on Healthcare Services and Health Institutions to organise a public hearing in collaboration with health care administrators and practitioners with a view to finding a permanent solution to medical brain drain in Nigeria.