Medical doctors have raised alarm over a dangerous manpower crisis, with only about 55,000 physicians left to serve Nigeria’s population exceeding 220 million people.
The Association of Resident Doctors at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, disclosed that no fewer than 16,000 Nigerian doctors have emigrated in the last five years under the “Japa” syndrome. NMA President Prof Omoti Ernest confirmed that while the Medical and Dental Council registered over 130,000 doctors, only 55,000 actively practice in Nigeria—roughly one doctor per 3,600 to 4,000 people, far below WHO’s recommended ratio of one per 600.
Dr. Yesir Kareem of Aro Neuropsychiatric Hospital warned that over 40 million Nigerians suffer mental health disorders, yet 85 per cent lack access to care. Nigeria now has fewer than 150 psychiatrists, forcing consultants to abandon research and specialist duties to fill gaps.
Dr. Veronica Nyamali, President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, linked the brain drain to shrinking pharmaceutical options, with fake medicines flooding the market as companies exit. She urged collaboration with traditional healers to reduce harmful practices like chaining.
ARD President Dr. Okuwoga Temitope said resident doctors face burnout, anxiety, and depression from overwhelming workloads. Doctors called for improved remuneration, expanded specialist training, and integration of mental health into primary care.
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