By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

Renowned medical director of Alliance Hospital and esteemed philanthropist, Dr. Christopher Otabor, is urging the federal government to take decisive action to curb brain drain and medical tourism. Speaking against the backdrop of ongoing challenges within the medical profession, where an increasing number of resident doctors are leaving the country for better opportunities abroad, Dr. Otabor warned of a looming crisis if proactive measures are not implemented.

"We are at a critical juncture in our nation's history. Without deliberate intervention from the government, we risk facing a severe shortage of doctors in the coming decades," Dr. Otabor cautioned. He attributed the exodus of medical professionals to the dual threats of brain drain and medical tourism, which continue to plague Nigeria's healthcare sector.

Reflecting on the dwindling number of applicants for medical positions, Dr. Otabor lamented the decline in interest among potential candidates. "In the past, we would receive numerous applications for medical roles. However, today, the response is minimal, leaving hospitals in a precarious position," he noted. The consequences of this trend, he warned, could lead to the collapse of the healthcare system.

Dr. Otabor identified several factors driving medical professionals away, including inadequate equipment and substandard salaries. "Lack of essential equipment diminishes the sense of fulfillment among medical practitioners, while poor remuneration further exacerbates dissatisfaction," he explained. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to retain skilled professionals within the country.

Highlighting the Abuja Declaration of 2001, which called for increased healthcare funding, Dr. Otabor underscored Nigeria's failure to meet the recommended allocation of 15% of the national budget to healthcare. He urged the government to prioritize healthcare financing to effect meaningful change.

Insecurity emerged as another critical factor contributing to brain drain, with Dr. Otabor citing a recent kidnapping incident involving a fellow medical professional. He stressed the urgent need for the government to address security challenges to safeguard the healthcare workforce.

While acknowledging the government's efforts, Dr. Otabor emphasized the importance of supporting private hospitals to alleviate pressure on the public sector. He cited the contributions of Alliance Hospital in specialized surgeries as evidence of the private sector's potential to bolster the healthcare system.

In conclusion, Dr. Otabor emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to reverse brain drain and reduce medical tourism. "By investing in hospital infrastructure, providing adequate equipment, and improving salaries, we can retain our medical workforce and minimize reliance on foreign healthcare services," he asserted.