Top officials from Nigeria’s tertiary health institutions have raised alarm over the growing exodus of health workers, warning that the country’s hospitals may soon be empty if urgent action isn’t taken to address poor remuneration.
During the 2025 budget defense at the House of Representatives Committee on Health Institutions, the Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, highlighted the dire situation.
CMDs Voice Concerns Over Worker Exodus
Professor Wasiu Adeyemo of LUTH revealed the alarming resignation rate among health workers. “Every day, we lose personnel to resignation. If this continues, our hospitals will be empty in the next two years,” he said.
He emphasized that poor pay is the main reason for the mass exodus. “Government invests heavily in infrastructure, but we risk having hospitals without workers. Currently, consultants earn less than $1,000 monthly,” he added.
Budget Challenges at Teaching Hospitals
Professor Jesse Abiodun of UCH shared similar concerns, citing delayed disbursement of funds as a significant challenge.
He disclosed that out of the hospital’s 2024 capital appropriation of N5.59 billion, only 38% of the funds had been released, leaving a 62% gap.
Abiodun explained, “We had to plan our spending carefully due to the delayed fund release, which only began in December. This delay has affected hospital operations significantly.”
Lawmakers Urge Clarity
Chairman of the House Committee on Health Institutions, Patrick Umoh, urged CMDs to provide thorough presentations to ensure a clear understanding of the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The CMDs have called on the government to urgently review health workers’ remuneration and streamline fund disbursement processes to prevent the collapse of the nation’s healthcare institutions.
For more updates on Nigeria’s health sector, follow NIGPOST for in-depth reports and breaking news.
Leave a Reply