According to the International College of Surgeons, Nigerian Section, ICS-NS, in the last six years, the nation lost 6,221 doctors to the United Kingdom.

Over 40 million Nigerians now find it challenging to see a doctor, according to the college, as the patient-to-doctor ratio has increased significantly.

In a statement released and signed by Prof. Akanimo Essiet, President of the institution, and Prof. Lucky Onotai, Secretary-General, during the 56th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the college, which was held over the weekend in Lagos respectively, stated: “The ‘JAPA’ phenomenon has drastically reduced our healthcare workforce.

”Studies show that about 87 per cent of our workforce are dissatisfied and wish to emigrate to greener pastures.

“Before 2022, we had a ratio of 1 doctor to 4,000 patients whereas the WHO recommended standard is 1 doctor to 600 patients.

”Evidence shows that the gap widens and the number of registered Nigerian doctors in the UK rose from 4,765 in 2017 to 10,986 in 2023.

“This meant that 6,221 doctors were lost to the UK in the past six years. This suggests that over 40 million Nigerians will find it harder to see a doctor.

“With the weakening of our currency against the US dollar, our healthcare professionals now earn between one-fifth to one-tenth of what their foreign counterparts earn.

“Our healthcare policy needs to gradually transform from the predominantly out-of-pocket financing method into the NHIA financed method. Private sector-led healthcare mega businesses can be encouraged with good regulation to boost the funding of healthcare services.

”This will lead to improved emoluments for healthcare workers and facilities as well as better access to quality healthcare for Nigeria.