Nigerian Healthcare Crisis: 1 Doctor to 10,000 Patients as Leaders Fail to Act

The Vice President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, has sounded the alarm on the country's dire healthcare situation, citing a staggering doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:10,000. This is a far cry from the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended ratio of 1:600 or even 1:1,000.

The Alarming Reality

The NMA's claim is supported by various reports, although different sources provide varying ratios¹ ² ³:

- *NIPSS Report*: 1 doctor to 10,000 patients

- *Federal Government Report*: 1 doctor to 2,753 patients, translating to 36.6 medical doctors per 100,000 persons

- *Education Minister's Statement*: 1 doctor to 6,000 patients

- *MDCAN Report*: 1 doctor to 2,500 individuals

Brain Drain and Healthcare Consequences

The severe shortage of medical professionals in Nigeria is attributed to the country's worsening brain drain, with many doctors emigrating in search of better opportunities. The NMA faults the Minister of Health's claim that Nigeria has a sufficient number of medical doctors, stating that there are only 20,000 to 30,000 practicing doctors out of approximately 80,000 registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.

Call to Action

Dr. Olowojebutu's statement highlights the need for Nigerian leaders to prioritize healthcare and address the shortage of medical professionals. The country's healthcare system requires urgent attention to prevent further deterioration and ensure quality medical care for its citizens.