Over 4,000 Nigerian doctors have moved to UK since 2023

By Ejire Folakunmi

Nearly 4,700 Nigerian-trained doctors have joined the United Kingdom’s medical register since May 2023, highlighting a growing migration trend that is putting additional strain on Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Data from the General Medical Council shows that 4,691 doctors trained in Nigeria were added to its register within the period, bringing the total number of Nigerian doctors practising in the UK to about 15,692. This makes Nigeria the second-largest source of foreign doctors after India.

The development has intensified concerns over brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector, where doctor-to-patient ratios remain below global standards. Estimates indicate that Nigeria has about 3.9 doctors per 10,000 people, compared to the benchmark recommended by the World Health Organization.

Analysts attribute the continued migration to factors such as low remuneration, demanding work conditions, limited infrastructure, and broader concerns about welfare and security.

Healthcare professionals say the impact is already evident in hospitals, where fewer personnel are available to manage increasing patient loads, often resulting in longer hours, higher burnout levels, and delays in care.

Beyond workforce shortages, the trend also carries economic implications. Estimates suggest that Nigeria has lost at least $98.5M in training investments tied to the migration of medical professionals within the period under review.

While the migration trend—commonly referred to as “japa”—is widely seen as a rational response by individuals seeking better opportunities, experts stress the need for systemic reforms to improve retention.

They argue that addressing issues such as competitive salaries, improved working conditions, modern equipment, and stronger institutional support could help reduce the outflow and strengthen the domestic healthcare system.

The figures underscore a broader challenge for Nigeria, balancing the production of skilled professionals with the ability to retain them, at a time when demand for healthcare services continues to rise.