FG Recruits 2,497 Doctors, Others In Six Months

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Alli Pate, on Wednesday, said the Federal Government has recruited 2,497 doctors, midwives, nurses, and Community Health Extension Workers in the last six months to bridge the manpower shortage in the health sector.

Prof Pate disclosed this on Wednesday at the third edition of the ministerial press briefing series initiated by the Ministry of Information in Abuja.

The briefing series was initiated to provide a platform for public officials to reel out their achievements and apprise Nigerians of the challenges of governance.

Nigeria with a low doctor-population ratio, is experiencing a massive exodus of physicians.

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria also stated that nine out of every 10 medical and dental consultants were leaving the country.

Poor remuneration, rising insecurity, inadequate diagnostic facilities, unconducive work conditions, and economic conditions are some of the reasons for the mass exodus.

Pate, however, said President Bola Tinubu had made remarkable strides made in enhancing healthcare accessibility, affordability, and quality.

He noted that the government has prioritized the revitalization of primary healthcare facilities, and ensuring they are adequately equipped and staffed to provide essential services to communities.