- Dr. Omietimi highlights “Japa syndrome,” the emigration of health workers, as a major issue impacting Nigeria’s healthcare delivery
- He calls for improved welfare, including higher salaries and better security, to retain skilled professionals in the healthcare sector
Dr. James Enimi Omietimi, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has raised concerns over the rising emigration of health workers, a trend he termed “Japa syndrome,” which is significantly impacting healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Speaking to members of the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, during their visit to the hospital, Dr Omietimi outlined the challenges faced due to the mass exodus of health professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.
“Japa syndrome is a major issue for us and hospitals nationwide. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and lab scientists are leaving in large numbers daily, causing severe understaffing and overworking those who remain,” he lamented.
Dr Omietimi emphasized that in addition to understaffing, poor remuneration, insecurity, and lack of infrastructure are key factors contributing to the healthcare crisis in Nigeria. He called for improved welfare packages, including higher salaries, an increased retirement age for health workers (from 60 to 65 or 70 years), and better security measures to retain skilled professionals.
“Insecurity is a significant factor driving professionals to migrate to countries like the United Kingdom, USA, Canada, and Australia. Criminals sometimes target health workers, although Bayelsa State experiences relatively fewer kidnappings compared to other states,” he explained.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Omietimi reassured the public of the hospital’s commitment to providing optimal clinical services. He noted the excellence of the cardiovascular section and ongoing efforts in manpower training and research.
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