The recent approval of an increased retirement age for doctors and healthcare workers from 60 to 65 years will help cushion the impact of the ‘japa’ syndrome on Nigeria’s health sector, says the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Oyo State Branch, Dr. Happy Adedapo.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Ibadan, Dr. Adedapo described the move as a welcome development, noting that it would help mitigate the severe shortage of healthcare personnel in the country.
President Bola Tinubu approved the new retirement age earlier in the week as part of efforts to address the mass exodus of medical professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.
Dr. Adedapo emphasized that the approval would temporarily bridge the gap caused by the ongoing brain drain in the medical field.
“This is something the medical community has long advocated for, as many healthcare facilities are struggling with a shortage of staff,” he said.
He further noted that the ‘japa’ crisis is not only external—where doctors leave Nigeria—but also internal, as many migrate to cities like Lagos and Abuja, where working conditions are perceived to be better.
“The shortage of both senior and junior professionals has left a dangerous vacuum in the system. Retaining experienced professionals who have been in the system and are not planning to relocate is a wise move,” he added.
While commending the approval, Dr. Adedapo stressed that effective implementation and necessary documentation must follow to ensure its success in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
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