Health Workers Lament Brain Drain, Poor Funding!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) has raised alarm over the worsening state of Nigeria’s health sector, citing mass emigration of healthcare professionals, poor funding, and growing economic challenges as major threats to service delivery and public health.
What We Know:
- The union expressed its concerns during a press conference in Abuja, describing the brain drain as “alarming and unsustainable.”
- Health professionals continue to migrate to countries like the UK, Canada, and Saudi Arabia in search of better working conditions.
- The union also criticised federal and state governments for inadequate investment in facilities, equipment, and staff welfare.
Quote:
“Our hospitals are losing skilled personnel daily. Without urgent intervention, the system may collapse.”
— Comrade Kabiru Minjibir, Acting President, MHWUN
Why It Matters:
- Undermines Nigeria’s ability to respond to public health emergencies.
- Worsens the doctor-patient and nurse-patient ratios, especially in rural areas.
- Increases the burden on remaining workers, leading to burnout and reduced service quality.
What to Watch:
Government policy responses on improving healthcare worker retention.
- Possible strikes or industrial actions by health unions.
- Implementation of improved funding frameworks for the health sector.
Sources:
- MHWUN Press Briefing – Nov. 4, 2025
- Channels TV – “Health workers decry mass exit, poor system support”
- Vanguard – “Brain drain: Health workers raise alarm, demand action”
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