Medical Students Planning to Leave Nigeria Before Graduation, NMA Warns

The Nigerian Medical Association has expressed concern over the increasing number of medical students preparing to leave the country even before completing their studies, describing the trend as a major threat to the healthcare sector.

According to the association, many students now begin making arrangements for foreign licensing examinations while still in medical school, with plans to relocate shortly after obtaining their professional qualifications.

The NMA noted that young doctors are becoming discouraged by poor welfare, limited career prospects, inadequate working conditions and concerns about their future in the country. As a result, many see migration as their best option for professional growth and financial stability.

The association urged the Federal Government to introduce policies that would encourage doctors to remain in Nigeria, stressing that improving remuneration, workplace conditions and security would significantly reduce the growing exodus of healthcare professionals.

It also highlighted the huge investment required to train medical doctors, warning that the continued loss of skilled personnel to other countries weakens the nation’s healthcare system and deprives citizens of quality medical services.

The NMA further called for stronger measures to protect healthcare workers from harassment and violence in hospitals, while encouraging improved communication between medical personnel, patients and their families to reduce tensions in health facilities.