FG Bans Health Workers Leave Of Absence Amid Japa Syndrome

FG Bans Health Workers Leave Of Absence Amid Japa Syndrome

The Federal Government has enacted a prohibition on health professionals taking leave of absence for relocation abroad, aiming to curb the phenomenon known as ‘Japa Syndrome’ in the health sector……READ ALSO FG Halts Implementation Of Expatriate Employment Levy

Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health, announced this directive during his visit to the Neuro Psychiatric Hospital, Aro, emphasizing that health workers seeking better opportunities abroad must resign before departing.

Alausa attributed this decision to an Executive Order issued by President Bola Tinubu, highlighting the government’s determination to address the challenge of brain drain in the health sector.

He revealed that the government had intensified recruitment efforts in the health sector, significantly increasing the enrollment of nurses and planning to expand further by the year’s end. Alausa stressed President Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing the health sector for the benefit of the Nigerian populace.

Regarding the shortage of manpower, Alausa stated that the government had embarked on massive recruitment drives for doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and nurses. However, he clarified that individuals were not prohibited from seeking opportunities abroad but must formally resign rather than apply for leave of absence.

The Minister explained that many health workers previously sought leave to work abroad, maintaining their government positions while earning abroad, thus straining resources. To address this, the President mandated that any health worker intending to work abroad must resign to create opportunities for others.

In response to demands for increased funding, infrastructure development, and welfare packages for health workers, Alausa assured that the ministry would prioritize improving the health sector’s fortunes.

Dr. Paul Agboola, the Provost and Chief Medical Director of the hospital, commended the Minister for his dedication to transforming the health sector, citing several new projects initiated under his approval, including a 40-bed mother and child hospital. Agboola reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to becoming a global center of excellence in neuro-psychiatric care.