By Chioma Obinna
More than six decades after Nigeria’s independence, the nation’s healthcare infrastructure continues to face significant challenges, struggling to adequately serve its growing population. Dr. Sahedd Babajide, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Lagos State Branch, highlights that despite numerous reforms and investments over the years, the health sector remains fraught with obstacles that impede the delivery of quality and accessible medical care.
One of the most pressing issues is the ongoing exodus of medical professionals, commonly referred to as the “Japa syndrome,” where skilled healthcare workers leave Nigeria in search of better prospects abroad. Dr. Babajide attributes this brain drain to a persistent lack of governmental commitment at all levels to address the root causes of this migration.
He emphasizes that to curb this trend, the government must offer competitive salaries, introduce non-taxable call duty allowances, and provide comprehensive welfare packages. Additionally, continuous professional development through training and research, alongside improvements in healthcare infrastructure and a supportive work environment-encompassing physical facilities, mental well-being, empathy, and effective communication-are essential.
Healthcare financing remains another critical hurdle. Federal and state governments allocate a mere 4 to 6 percent of their budgets to health, falling short of the 15 percent target set by the 2001 Abuja Declaration. Dr. Babajide criticizes the misallocation of funds to large-scale projects that yield minimal benefits for the general population, diverting resources away from essential services.
The primary healthcare system, which should be the cornerstone of Nigeria’s health delivery, suffers from neglect. This disregard undermines the progress and efficiency of secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. Many health institutions are plagued by outdated equipment and insufficient medical supplies, creating an environment that is neither conducive for healthcare workers nor patients. Furthermore, Nigeria’s preparedness for emergencies such as natural disasters and epidemics remains inadequate.
Dr. Babajide also points out that the continued reliance on medical tourism drains the country’s resources, yet there is little political will or stakeholder commitment to reverse this trend. The welfare of healthcare workers is equally concerning, with poor remuneration, limited training opportunities, and insufficient research funding negatively impacting their performance and morale.
To transform the healthcare landscape, Dr. Babajide proposes several reforms. He advocates for the revitalization and standardization of primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare systems within a well-structured delivery framework. Adequate and transparent healthcare financing, including proper budget allocation, financial oversight, and streamlined procurement processes, is vital.
He stresses the importance of merit-based career advancement and the appointment of qualified medical professionals to leadership roles such as Ministers, Commissioners, and hospital directors. These leaders should embody integrity, humility, dedication, and empathy towards the medical profession.
On infrastructure, Dr. Babajide calls for the establishment of Infectious Disease Hospitals and Trauma Centres in every state and the Federal Capital Territory. He also recommends the development of multi-specialty centers focusing on pediatrics, renal care, cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery to reduce the need for Nigerians to seek treatment abroad.
Enhancing the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is another priority, aiming to broaden coverage, ensure timely payments to providers, and improve service quality. While Lagos State has made some strides, Dr. Babajide notes that significant work remains, particularly in improving healthcare workers’ salaries by reinstating pre-April 2025 pay scales and implementing non-taxable call duty allowances.
He urges the government to prioritize primary healthcare by constructing more centers in every ward and local council area, alongside recruiting sufficient medical personnel, especially doctors. Addressing the shortage of hospital beds and strengthening the referral system are also critical, with calls for new general hospitals in underserved areas such as Ojo, Alimosho, Epe, Ajah, Ikorodu, and Oshodi.
Revisiting the 2006 Lagos State Health Sector Reform Law is recommended to bolster the health system’s effectiveness. Dr. Babajide also advocates for adherence to due process and respect for hierarchy in leadership appointments, ensuring that seniority and career progression are honored.
He further suggests constructing specialized hospitals across senatorial districts or local government areas, including facilities dedicated to cardiac care, renal treatment, pediatrics, cancer, mental health, and orthopedics. Improving the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (LASHA) by expanding coverage, enhancing provider payments, and elevating service standards is also essential.
Finally, Dr. Babajide calls for the organization of a Lagos State Health Summit to foster collaborative solutions among stakeholders. He remains hopeful, stating, “For Nigeria’s health system to function efficiently and effectively, decisive reforms backed by genuine political will and commitment are indispensable.”