By Muhammad Amaan
Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) said the only way to end the current migration of health workers from Nigeria into other countries, is by improving their welfare package and working environment.
MDCN Registrar, Dr Fatima Kyari stated this while fielding questions from newsmen in Abia State where she attended the induction ceremony of second batch of medical doctors of Gregory University, Uturu held at Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia.
Dr Kyari, who was represented by the Deputy Registrar and Head, Planning, Research and Statistics of MDCN, Dr Victor Kolawole, decried the grave implications of the exodus of medical professionals on the health sector, called for quick action to halt the trend.
She acknowledged that health workers in Nigeria “are well trained,” hence, the high demand for them abroad, but regretted that poor condition of service in the country, drive them into search for greener pasture abroad.
“Nigerian doctors are well trained, that’s why they are highly sought after abroad. But we are doing all we can to reverse their migration. That’s where our focus is – to ensure that the high quality of practitioners we produce in this country stay back to tackle the numerous health challenges of the citizens.
“Government needs to provide the enabling environment to ensure they remain here in the country. Nigeria is growing in population, and we need doctors and health care professionals to man the health care needs,” she said.
Addressing the inductees earlier, the MDCN registrar charged medical doctors to respect the ethics of the profession, and to deliver excellent service.
She also charged them to place the health and wellbeing of patients above other considerations.
“Be exceptional. Learn on the job, and don’t let your patient regret meeting you.”
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Celestina Njoku described the graduation of the second sets of medical doctors from the university as a significant milestone in the institution’s academic journey.
The VC urged the doctors to be devoted to their career and remain worthy ambassadors of the university.
“Medical practice is not just a career but a calling. It demands technical skill, knowledge, compassion, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of others.
“You are now entrusted with the health and lives of your patients, and this responsibility is both a privilege and a duty,” the VC said.
