In a sobering revelation, Dr. Fatima Kyari, the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), has disclosed a concerning trend in the country’s healthcare sector. She revealed that out of the 130,000 medical doctors registered to practice in Nigeria over the past six decades, only 58,000 renewed their annual practicing licenses in 2023.
Speaking during the induction and oath-taking ceremony of 20 newly qualified doctors at the Edo State University, Uzairue, Dr. Kyari attributed this decline to the escalating issue of brain drain within the healthcare profession. The exodus of medical professionals seeking opportunities abroad has left a noticeable void in the local healthcare workforce.
Represented by Deputy Registrar Dr. Victor Kolawole, Dr. Kyari underscored the significance of the induction of these new doctors, emphasizing that they would contribute to bolstering the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. However, she cautioned them to adhere strictly to professional ethics, reminding them of the council’s role in regulating and disciplining errant practitioners.
Echoing similar sentiments, Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, highlighted the pivotal role of the upgraded central hospital in Auchi, now a teaching hospital. This enhancement, he noted, has not only enriched the training of medical students but also elevated the quality of healthcare services in Edo North and its environs.
As the newly inducted doctors embark on their professional journey, Prof. Aluyor urged them to uphold the noble ideals of their profession, expressing confidence in their ability to bring honor to both the university and the MDCN. He also extended gratitude to Governor Godwin Obaseki for his steadfast support of the university’s endeavors in advancing healthcare education and services.