Nigeria Risks Continued Suffering from 'Japa Syndrome' Without Retaining Health Workers, Warns NMA

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Delta State Branch, has issued a stark warning: Nigeria faces continued consequences from the "japa syndrome", the mass migration of skilled health workers, unless the nation takes swift action to appreciate and retain its caregivers. The association stressed that immediate and appropriate measures are necessary to prevent further brain drain.

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the country would continue to suffer the consequences of the japa syndrome, where the skilled health workers continue to migrate out of the country in search of greener pastures and assured security if the Nigerian society does not act fast and appropriately appreciate major care givers.

Dr. Israel Adaigho, Chairman of the NMA Delta State Branch, highlighted the need for government intervention, proposing incentives like tax rebates for critical healthcare workers, similar to those granted to defense and security personnel. He lamented that caregivers are increasingly undervalued and unprotected, facing disturbing challenges even from within the health sector and from patients.

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the time to act is now.

During the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Asaba, the NMA also focused on the escalating national epidemic of substance abuse. Dr. Adaigho emphasized the importance of raising awareness, promoting prevention, encouraging treatment, and supporting mental healing related to drug abuse. He noted that open communication is crucial to shattering the stigma that prevents individuals from seeking help and to addressing underlying causes like trauma and peer pressure.

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the medical doctor is faced with increasing and disturbing challenges, even to the ridiculous point of becoming a loathed and misunderstood professional by other colleagues in the health sector workplace, both in the hospital and outside hospital in the ministry and the university communities.

The conference also touched upon the sub-theme of "Reducing Maternal Mortality in Nigeria: From Evidence to Action," aiming to address the tragic loss of lives associated with childbirth. The NMA's concerns underscore a critical juncture for Nigeria's healthcare system, grappling with both the exodus of professionals and the pervasive issue of drug abuse.

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There are so many advantages in talking about drug abuse. This helps to prevent addiction, promote early intervention, and reducing the devastating health and social consequences of drug abuse.