President Bola Tinubu's Special Adviser on Public Health Matters, Salma Anas, expressed concern about the significant departure of health workers seeking better opportunities. Anas, addressing the 2023 annual conference of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists in Abuja, emphasized Tinubu's commitment to enhancing Nigeria's health sector.
She stated, "President Bola Tinubu is worried about the 'Japan syndrome' inherited from previous administrations," adding, "Part of our commitment is to reverse that trend and ensure we retain our medical experts within the country through various interventions."
Anas highlighted efforts to motivate health sector workers, emphasizing not only regular payment of salaries and allowances but also creating a conducive working environment.
The focus includes providing state-of-the-art medical facilities, particularly at the primary level of healthcare. The government aims to produce more health workers across various fields.
Bassey Bassey, the National President of the Association of Medical Laboratory of Nigeria, discussed initiatives to combat quackery in the health sector.
The association, collaborating with partners, has closed numerous unregistered laboratories to reduce incorrect diagnoses and other illegal activities. The laboratory scientists also mentioned plans to initiate the local production of essential medical equipment and items in Nigeria.
