The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kano Chapter, has revealed that a significant number of doctors and other medical professionals have departed from Kano State in pursuit of better opportunities abroad. According to the association, a total of 162 medical doctors and 789 nurses have migrated to foreign countries as part of the ongoing trend known as the “Japa syndrome.” Dr. Abdullahi Sulaiman, the chairman of the association, conveyed this information through a press statement he personally issued to the media.
Dr. Sulaiman emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that it extends to almost all healthcare workers, not solely limited to doctors. He mentioned that healthcare professionals are relocating to various countries such as Gambia, Somalia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, and others on a weekly basis.
In response to this exodus, the Kano State Government is taking measures to address the shortage by planning to hire additional doctors and medical personnel.