Concern Medics Foundation (CMF), a group of Nigerian doctors based abroad, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Hospital for Women and Children in Abuja to combat brain drain in Nigeria.
The agreement was signed by Professor Raji Mahmoud, Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, and Dr. Sadiya Gumi, Chairperson of CMF.
Dr. Gumi announced that the partnership aims to tackle medical brain drain by involving Nigerian doctors in the diaspora through a two-year rotation program at the National Hospital. This initiative seeks to transform brain drain into brain gain and mitigate the "Japa syndrome" among Nigerian medical professionals.
The pilot program will include 24 doctors from various specialties, including surgery, psychiatry, intensive care, anesthesiology, pediatrics, adult medicine, and general practice.
The MoU outlines several commitments, including:
- Providing onsite accommodation for the visiting doctors, ensuring it is renovated, furnished, and secure.
- Assisting with logistics to integrate the doctors into the hospital's operations.
- Organizing monthly rotations for the diaspora doctors.
- Offering continuous training and mentoring for resident doctors.
- Ensuring the visiting doctors meet all professional and regulatory requirements.
- Making logistical arrangements for travel, food, and transportation.
The collaboration also aims to explore expanding the program to other states in Nigeria.