Japa: Bayelsa Employs More Health Workers to Curb Brain Drain!

Japa: Bayelsa Employs More Health Workers to Curb Brain Drain!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Bayelsa State Government has announced the recruitment of additional healthcare professionals as part of its response to the rising wave of medical brain drain, popularly referred to as the “japa” syndrome.

What We Know:

• The move comes amid increasing emigration of Nigerian health workers seeking better opportunities abroad.
• State officials say the new hires include doctors, nurses, and other clinical staff deployed across primary and secondary health centres.
• Governor Douye Diri emphasized the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and retaining talent through improved welfare and infrastructure.

Quote:

“We are investing in our health system not just with infrastructure, but by empowering the workforce. Our people deserve quality care,” — Bayelsa State Health Commissioner.

Why It Matters:

• Nigeria has lost thousands of healthcare professionals in recent years, straining public hospitals.
• States like Bayelsa are under pressure to boost healthcare access in rural communities.
• Localised efforts like this may help slow the mass exodus if sustained with good pay and career growth.

Citations:

1. Bayelsa State Ministry of Health Press Briefing – Oct. 2025
2. Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)
3. The Guardian Nigeria – “Bayelsa Fights Japa with Mass Health Employment”

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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