FG Launches Innovative Program to Bring Nigerian Health Workers Back Home

The Federal Government has launched the Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora Plus Engagement Programme. This initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, aims to repatriate the expertise of Nigerian health professionals currently working abroad.

The programme is designed to leverage their knowledge, skills, and experience to improve healthcare delivery at home.

The programme is a critical component of the government's four-point Strategic Health Agenda, which focuses on reforming healthcare through improved governance, quality health systems, value chain development, and health security. As Dr. Alausa articulated, “The continued emigration of our healthcare workforce has posed significant challenges to achieving Universal Health Coverage.

However, this initiative provides an opportunity to turn brain drain into brain gain.”

The initiative was officially introduced during the Diaspora Stakeholders’ Forum held in Abuja on October 10th. It seeks to foster long-term collaboration between Nigerian professionals in the diaspora and their counterparts within the country.

The programme encourages investment in telemedicine, biomedical technology, and clinical research, aiming to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery.

Dr. Ibrahim Wada of NISA Premier Medical Group highlighted the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in enhancing healthcare services, noting that these partnerships have been effective over the last 15 years in tackling diseases such as sickle cell and expanding access to quality care.

He emphasized the importance of engaging local communities and building capacity at the grassroots level, stating, “Effective management, not just modern equipment, creates a seamless experience for both healthcare professionals and patients.”

While the programme sets a promising framework, its success will depend on sustainable collaboration with private sector players and international partners.

Dr. Pamela Ajayi, President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, pointed out the transformative potential of digital platforms and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reaching rural areas and improving healthcare access.

She stressed that the involvement of the Nigerian Diaspora is crucial for advancing research, innovation, and healthcare infrastructure.