To Stem Medical Tourism, Japa Syndrome, FG Throws ₦110 Billion into Medical Schools

The Federal Government has announced a ₦110 billion intervention fund aimed at revitalizing the country’s medical education sector.

The initiative, unveiled by the Minister of Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, will be implemented through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and is designed to address the deteriorating infrastructure in medical schools across the country.

The goal is to improve the quality of training for medical professionals and reduce the push factors contributing to their departure abroad in search of better opportunities.

According to the Minister, ₦70 billion of the total fund will go toward rehabilitating and upgrading 18 medical schools across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to meet international standards.

An additional ₦15 billion has been earmarked for the construction of student hostels to ease accommodation challenges and enhance the learning environment for medical students.

“This intervention is critical. We must produce more doctors and ensure they are trained in facilities that match global standards. That is the only way we can retain our talents and curb the Japa syndrome,” Dr. Sununu said during the official announcement in Abuja.

Among the beneficiaries of the funding are top institutions such as the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University, and University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

The comprehensive project is expected to increase student intake, improve access to practical medical training, and raise the overall standard of healthcare education in the country.

The government emphasized that this is part of a broader, long-term strategy to build a robust healthcare system capable of meeting Nigeria’s growing medical needs.

The initiative also aligns with efforts to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign-trained professionals and medical tourism.

Stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that a revitalized education system is crucial not only for retaining skilled workers but also for attracting Nigerians in the diaspora to return home and contribute to national development.

The project is expected to span a five-year period, with the Federal Government committing to sustained investment in the education and healthcare sectors to ensure lasting impact.