Nigerian Health Sector "Japa" Syndrome: Can policy Fix it?

Nigeria is facing a significant challenge in its health sector. More and more doctors, nurses, and health professionals are leaving the country in search of better opportunities. This growing trend, often called the "Japa" syndrome, is putting serious pressure on the healthcare system. Hospitals are struggling to keep up, patients are waiting longer for care, and the remaining health workers are stretched thin.

In the first episode of the Know Your Health Right campaign series on the #BreakItDownPodcast, host Chibuike Alagboso is joined by Dr Adaeze Okonkwo, Consultant Physician and Deputy Director of Health System Strengthening at the Department of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria, and Dr Nnenna Oji, a public health expert. Together, they discuss the impact of brain drain on Nigeria’s health system and introduce the new Health Workforce Migration Policy.

This episode explores why health workers are leaving, how their absence is affecting healthcare delivery across the country, and what this new policy aims to do to address the crisis. The conversation also highlights the role of government, civil society, and citizens in shaping a future where Nigerian health professionals can thrive at home.

Tune in to understand how policy might help turn things around — and why it matters for every Nigerian.

🎧 Listen now!

We are always happy to receive your feedback via podcasts@nigeriahealthwatch.com and because we are doing this as a community, you can also send us your comments as voice notes and we will include them in our episodes. Send your voice notes via email or our WhatsApp number - +234 708 501 4676

Follow us across Social Media and engage with us using the hashtag - #BreakItDownPodcast.

Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Website