In a recent interview, the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Dr Tajudeen Sanusi, expressed his concerns about the challenges faced by Nigerian doctors practicing abroad. He highlighted the mass emigration of doctors from Nigeria and emphasized the importance of doctors staying back in the country. Dr Sanusi also addressed issues of discipline within the medical profession.
As a regulator, Dr Sanusi stressed the need to prioritize the interests of the public. He acknowledged that the role of a regulator is not an easy one but stated that his experience of over 20 years in the system has equipped him with the knowledge and understanding necessary to carry out his responsibilities effectively. Dr Sanusi emphasized the importance of being proactive and prepared for the daily challenges that come with the job.
During the induction ceremony for foreign-trained medical and dental graduates, Dr Sanusi cautioned doctors against relocating abroad to practice, referring to this phenomenon as “Japa.” He expressed his belief that such a move does not benefit anyone. He pointed out that Nigerian doctors who have migrated to the United Kingdom did so on their own accord, and it was not the result of any action taken by the Nigerian authorities. Dr Sanusi highlighted the difference in work ethic and accountability between Nigeria and other countries, emphasizing that doctors abroad are required to adhere to strict work schedules and expectations.
Dr Sanusi shared an example of a professor who had worked in the United Kingdom and later returned to Nigeria. The professor highlighted the stark contrast in work culture, stating that while in the UK, he had to adhere to strict timekeeping and responsibilities as a consultant. In contrast, he observed that some consultants in Nigeria were not always present at their duty posts. Dr Sanusi emphasized that being a consultant comes with increased responsibilities and that doctors should strive to maintain high standards and professionalism.
Regarding the “Japa syndrome,” Dr Sanusi expressed his belief that many doctors are being misinformed about the advantages of migrating abroad. He encouraged doctors to take advantage of the opportunities for postgraduate training abroad but stressed the importance of returning to Nigeria after specialization. He reminded doctors that their education and training in Nigeria were largely funded by taxpayers’ money and urged them to give back to the system that invested in their development. Dr Sanusi highlighted the obligation of doctors who trained abroad with public funds in countries like the UK and the US to contribute to the continuous training of more doctors. He criticized the practice of developed countries recruiting doctors from third-world countries, which he deemed cheap for them while leaving the countries of origin with a shortage of doctors.
In conclusion, Dr Tajudeen Sanusi’s insights shed light on the challenges faced by Nigerian doctors who choose to practice abroad. He emphasized the importance of doctors staying in Nigeria to contribute to the healthcare system and the obligation of doctors who trained abroad to give back to their home country. Dr Sanusi’s remarks serve as a reminder that the grass is not always greener on the other side and that Nigerian doctors have a crucial role to play in improving healthcare within the country.
Source: Punch Newspaper
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