
Vice President Kashim Shettima has made a heartfelt appeal to Nigerian doctors, urging them to remain in the country and collaborate with the government in improving the nation's healthcare system. His call came during a courtesy visit from the National Executive Committee of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), led by its newly elected President, Prof. Bala Audu, at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, June 11.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media & Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, Vice President Shettima addressed the growing trend of medical professionals emigrating from Nigeria, commonly referred to as the "Japa Syndrome."
He emphasized the importance of doctors resisting the allure of opportunities abroad, highlighting President Bola Tinubu's commitment to their welfare and the healthcare sector.
"Remain steadfast and resist the temptation of offering your services in foreign lands. In President Tinubu, you have an ally who will stand by you at all times," Shettima stated. "President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has Nigerian doctors at heart. He has a lot of empathy for our medical doctors who have opted to stay put at home, not for lack of offers."
The Vice President lauded the significant contributions and sacrifices of Nigerian doctors, particularly in enhancing healthcare delivery within the country. He urged them to remain hopeful and invested in the nation's future.
"Let us stay back and salvage this nation together. This is our country, the greatest black nation on earth, and a promising nation that we need to invest in," Shettima added. "The NMA is one of the most prestigious, preeminent associations in this country. We must commend you for the sacrifices you are making and for staying put in this nation."
Additionally, Shettima encouraged the NMA to motivate young doctors to specialize in key medical disciplines and to take active steps in curbing the activities of unqualified practitioners.
The Vice President's call reflects the administration's broader effort to address the challenges in Nigeria's healthcare sector and retain skilled medical professionals who are crucial to the nation's development.
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