Perm Sec appeals to health workers to stay and rebuild Nigeria

In a heartfelt appeal, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, urged medical doctors and health workers to remain in Nigeria and actively contribute to the nation’s recovery. The plea, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of the country, was made during the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) National Executive Council Meeting in Abuja.

Kana stressed the significance of unity and collaboration, stating that the Federal Government is steadfastly working to revitalize the health sector. He discouraged the trend of professionals leaving the country and urged them to join forces in salvaging Nigeria.

Addressing the “japa” syndrome, Kana said, “Please, I am appealing to our doctors and other health workers not to leave our dear country. We don’t have another country. You will still come back home when you leave Nigeria now, so let’s stay and salvage it together.” He also highlighted the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s government to improving the health sector, assuring continuous recruitment and prioritization of healthcare as part of its social responsibilities.

The statement from the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, emphasized the government’s dedication to recruiting doctors and prioritizing healthcare. The NMA President, Dr. Uche Ojinmah, addressing the theme of the meeting, ‘Achieving Universal Health Coverage in a Depressed Economy,’ expressed the association’s vision for a Nigeria where citizens face zero out-of-pocket expenditure for healthcare. Ojinmah also flagged the issue of the kidnapping of doctors and healthcare workers, calling for swift attention to address this significant security concern.