The Federal Government has urged Nigerians living abroad, particularly healthcare professionals, to contribute their expertise and experience toward strengthening the country’s health sector, describing their knowledge and global exposure as critical to improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
The appeal was made as part of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s renewed efforts to address workforce shortages and improve access to quality healthcare through stronger engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora.
According to the government, Nigerian doctors, nurses, pharmacists, researchers and other medical professionals working overseas are encouraged to support the country’s healthcare system by providing specialised clinical services, participating in medical education and training, contributing to research, and fostering partnerships with healthcare institutions both physically and virtually.
The initiative aligns with the recently launched Nigerians in Diaspora Advanced Health Programme (NiDAH-P), a coordinated national platform designed to mobilise Nigerian healthcare professionals abroad and connect them with federal tertiary health institutions across the country. The programme seeks to bridge gaps in specialist care, strengthen residency training, and facilitate knowledge transfer to local health workers.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has consistently stressed that Nigeria needs more than financial investment from its diaspora community. He said the country also requires their expertise, professional networks and innovation to improve healthcare infrastructure, attract investment in medical technology, and enhance service delivery.
The government noted that many Nigerian health professionals abroad have already been supporting the country’s medical sector through voluntary missions, specialist services and training programmes. However, officials said the new initiative provides a structured framework to coordinate such contributions and maximise their impact.
Nigeria has continued to grapple with the migration of healthcare workers, commonly referred to as the “brain drain,” as thousands of doctors, nurses and other professionals relocate abroad in search of better working conditions and career opportunities. The shortage has placed additional pressure on the country’s health system, making diaspora engagement a key component of the government’s health sector renewal agenda.
The Federal Government expressed optimism that sustained collaboration with Nigerians in the diaspora would strengthen healthcare delivery, expand specialist services, improve medical education and research, and ultimately contribute to better health outcomes for citizens.
