Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed serious concern regarding the increasing trend of Nigerian doctors emigrating in search of better opportunities, a situation commonly referred to as the “Japa syndrome.” Obasanjo raised this issue during the 44th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), held at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abeokuta.

In his remarks, delivered by Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, the Medical Director of FMC, Obasanjo underscored the crucial role that resident doctors play in the healthcare system. He urged all levels of government to prioritize the welfare of medical professionals, noting that ongoing economic challenges have intensified the exodus of healthcare practitioners, resulting in the closure of many specialized medical services due to the departure of key specialists.

Obasanjo highlighted the urgent need to enhance welfare packages for doctors to mitigate the brain drain and ensure the delivery of quality healthcare in Nigeria. Also addressing the conference, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker, acknowledged the significant contributions of doctors amid the challenges they face. He called on the medical community to focus on the environmental impact of healthcare waste, which constitutes 30% of global environmental issues. Governor Abiodun encouraged doctors to adopt innovative waste management and recycling strategies to safeguard the planet for future generations.

NARD President Dele Olaitan reaffirmed that doctors are the backbone of the healthcare system, motivating his colleagues to maintain high standards of medical care for patients, despite the obstacles they encounter.