The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the shortage of medical doctors and other health professionals caused by the “Japa” syndrome will soon be tackled, with a long-term goal of reducing the nation’s dependence on medical tourism.
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The Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, on behalf of the Federal Government, gave the assurance after inspecting medical and health sciences facilities at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna), and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Bida, in Niger State. He stated that the Federal Government is making deliberate efforts to train more healthcare personnel to bridge the gap created by the mass migration of doctors out of the country.
Represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Jimoh Salawudeen, the minister and his team also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment and readiness to support FUTMinna and FMC Bida’s plan to collaborate in establishing a Faculty of Medical Sciences and Health Technology. The initiative, he emphasized, is backed by the Federal Government and is aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery in the state and across Nigeria.
” We are here on behalf of the Minister of Health, and we are impressed with the facilities, equipment, and personnel at FUTMinna and FMC Bida”
“The hospital has over 60 consultants, 5,000-to 6,000 monthly patients, and adequate equipment. The university has many Proffesors and medical students’ hostels are also ready for occupancy.”
He, however, identified some gaps in equipment and personnel at the Federal Medical Center which is to provide clinical training under arrangement urging the Institution to ensure the gaps are addressed
Speaking, VIce Chancellor FUTMinna, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, who welcomed the collaboration, said it will benefit the nation and beyond as both institutions are committed to establishing a world-class medical school.
According to him, ” This is what we have been asking for. It’s a marriage between two institutions that will benefit Nigeria and the world.”
He emphasized that the partnership is aimed to address Nigeria’s healthcare needs and produce skilled medical professionals, reducing reliance on foreign medical services.
The Medical Director FMC Bida, Dr. Abubakar Usman, assured, “We are good to go. We will address gaps in equipment and personnel within three years and provide excellent training for medical students.”
Dr. Usman, also said the hospital will soon relocate to its permanent site to enhance activities and address space constraints.
The inspection team visited facilities at FUTMinna, including a 48-bed female medical students’ hostel, male hostel, equipped human anatomy laboratory, Africa Centre of Excellence for Mycotoxin and food safety, and central store.
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