Alausa emphasized that health workers are no longer permitted to seek greener pastures in other countries while on leave of absence.
This directive, according to the minister, stems from an executive order issued by President Bola Tinubu to address the issue of brain drain, commonly referred to as ‘Japa Syndrome,’ plaguing the nation’s healthcare sector.
Additionally, Alausa disclosed that the government has initiated efforts to bolster manpower in the health sector. He noted a significant increase in the annual enrollment of nurses, which has risen from 28,000 to 68,000, with projections to reach 120,000 by the end of the year.
The minister made these remarks during his visit to the Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Saturday.
He highlighted that the President views the people as the country’s most valuable asset and has committed to taking proactive measures to ensure the health sector remains robust, thereby safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
Addressing the issue of manpower shortages in federal government-owned health institutions, Alausa stated, “The government recognizes the impact of brain drain on our health sector and the President has mandated the large-scale production of manpower to ensure there are always replacements available.”
“In light of this situation, we are significantly increasing our efforts towards nurse enrollment. Our current enrollment, which previously stood at 28,000, has now risen to 68,000. Our objective is to further elevate it to 120,000 by year-end, ensuring a surplus of skilled manpower to seamlessly replace outgoing personnel.”
“We’ve also doubled our enrollment quotas for doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. However, we’re not restricting anyone from pursuing opportunities abroad in countries like the UK or Australia; it’s a matter of personal choice in a free world.”
The minister emphasized, “Nevertheless, one cannot have the best of both worlds. If one decides to relocate, it’s essential to formally resign from their position with the Federal Government instead of seeking leave of absence, as per the Presidential executive order communicated to all Chief Medical Directors of Federal Government-owned health facilities.”
Explaining the rationale behind this directive, the minister elaborated, “The issue with leave of absence is that the individual continues to be on the government’s payroll while working abroad, which complicates the replacement process. By resigning, vacancies can be promptly filled, preventing undue strain on remaining staff.”
Regarding the hospital’s requests for increased funding, infrastructure development, and improved welfare packages, Alausa assured that the ministry is committed to addressing these concerns comprehensively to enhance the healthcare sector’s prospects in the country.
In his remarks, Dr. Paul Agboola, the Provost and Chief Medical Director of the hospital, commended the Minister for his dedication and commitment to improving the health sector.
Dr. Agboola highlighted that thanks to the Minister’s approval, his administration had initiated projects that had long been pending, including the establishment of the Institute of Psychiatric, which had been in development for approximately 40 years, among other endeavors.
