By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
Coordinating Minister, Ministry of Health & Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate has disclosed the Nigerian Government’s commitment to curb the prevailing migration of the health workforce to safeguard the wellbeing of Nigerians.
Prof. Pate said that checkmating the migration of the health workforce would address its implications on the health systems, by joining hands and developing effective strategies.
He said, “we can work towards a future where our healthcare workforce is resilient, vibrant, and capable of meeting the needs of our populations.’
The Minister revealed this in response to Agenda 8 in the annual report of the Regional Director Matshidiso Moeti, on the work of the World Health Organization in the African Region recently held in Botswana.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Kachollom Daju stated that the “Framework for implementing the Global Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery, 2021–2025 in the WHO African Region.” arrives at a crucial juncture, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cast light on our healthcare systems’ strengths and vulnerabilities.
“As we create comprehensive strategies, we can collectively mitigate the negative impacts of health worker migration on our health systems.”
“We encourage the development of effective strategies to promote the retention of skilled health professionals through improved working conditions, professional development opportunities, and recognition of their contributions.”
According to the minister, exploring innovative ways to tap into the expertise of the diaspora and encouraging their return can contribute significantly to strengthening healthcare systems assuring that Nigeria fully supports this framework.
He noted that the framework aligns with Nigeria’s national health care priorities to drive positive changes in the nation’s healthcare systems.
He disclosed that in the aftermath of the challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria is prepared to collaborate with other member states to realize the objectives set forth in this framework”.
He said, “As we embark on this journey of formulating GPW 14, let us seize the opportunity to build upon the lessons learned from GPW 13, particularly our experiences dealing with the unprecedented challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Meanwhile, Prof . Pate called on countries to ensure the completion of GPW 13 with impactful results while accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030”.
The minister, who suggested a timeline from 2026 to 2030 on the GPW 14 with the global SDG agenda.
Pate assured of Nigeria’s collaboration to ensure the GPW 14 to catalyze progress, fortify health systems, and advance the well-being of all.
