FG Vows to Improve Working Conditions to Curb Health Sector Brain Drain

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare and training environment for healthcare professionals in a bid to slow the exodus of skilled workers seeking opportunities abroad.

Speaking at the induction ceremony of 107 participants in the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Orientation Programme (FPGOP) of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) in Abuja, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, said targeted investments were being made to address workforce challenges in the sector.

Pate, represented by the Ministry’s Director of Food and Drugs Services, Olubunmi Aribeana, described the growing migration of healthcare workers as a “mindset challenge.” He disclosed that increased funding has been allocated to 18 universities offering pharmacy, nursing, dentistry and other health-related programmes to expand infrastructure and strengthen training capacity.

“The healthcare landscape in Nigeria is evolving rapidly, and pharmacists are at the heart of that transformation. Their role in combating counterfeit drugs, bridging access gaps, and ensuring rational drug use is critical,” Pate stated.

He urged the new pharmacists to uphold ethics, protect human dignity and prioritise patient well-being. “You are not just dispensers of medicine; you are educators, advocates, and guardians of safe and effective therapy. As you take your oath, you promise to never stop learning,” he added.

PCN Registrar, Ibrahim Ahmed, emphasised the importance of continuous professional development through the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) programme, which remains a prerequisite for licence renewal. He explained that the FPGOP equips foreign-trained pharmacy graduates with knowledge of local health realities and prepares them for the statutory one-year internship under licensed practitioners.

Ahmed also warned that pharmacists found guilty of misconduct would face investigations and possible disciplinary measures, including suspension from practice.

Similarly, PCN Board Chair, Wosilat Giwa, urged the inductees to maintain discipline and uphold the ethical standards of the profession.

The government’s renewed pledge comes amid growing concern over the loss of medical and pharmaceutical talent to Western countries, a trend that threatens Nigeria’s already strained healthcare system.