The Federal Capital Territory chapter of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory Administration, ARD-FCTA, has revealed why its members are relocating to other countries.
According to the association, doctors are relocating to where they would have “limited working hours, better remuneration, and access to quality healthcare.”
Dr Rahman Olayinka, President of ARD-FCTA, made the assertion on Monday during a press conference to announce the 2024 Annual Health Week and Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the association.
He said: “It is no surprise that in Nigeria today, we are witnessing what we call the ‘Japa syndrome’.
“This is because the welfare of healthcare workers has not been adequately addressed by the government.
“Why do doctors seek greener pastures abroad? It’s simple: limited working hours, better remuneration, and access to quality healthcare.
“In Nigeria, however, doctors often work under such extreme conditions that they fall ill themselves and cannot afford proper healthcare.
“It is shameful that as healthcare practitioners, we cannot access the same healthcare system we work in. These unresolved issues have driven many healthcare workers out of the country in search of better opportunities.”
Olayinka also expressed concern over the frequent abduction of its members nationwide, urging the tiers of government to address the situation immediately.
Olayinka described the abductions as a major concern, emphasising that insecurity is one of the key reasons doctors are leaving Nigeria for better opportunities abroad, alongside issues of poor welfare.