The Registrar of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, Dr Tosan Erhabor, says no fewer than 10,697 medical laboratory scientists have migrated abroad in search of greener pastures.
He said in 2023 alone, more than 4,504 medical laboratory scientists left the country.
Erhabor told the News Agency of Nigeria that a policy was being put together by the Federal Ministry of Health to address the current exodus of health workers abroad.
“The total number of medical laboratory scientists that have migrated is 10,697,” he said.
He said the policy, when launched, would regulate migration of Nigerian health workers.
Erhabor said the government had reviewed the hazard allowance of health professionals to boost their productivity.
“Government is considering reviewing the minimum wage and certain peculiar allowance of health professionals. Safe and conducive work environment can be a panacea for reducing the pace of brain drain amongst medical laboratories,” he said.
Erhabor attributed the migration of medical scientists to different reasons.
“Some are leaving as a result of poor remuneration and uncertainties in the career progression in teaching hospitals. Others are leaving in order to study abroad, acquire new skills and enhance their professional status.
“Good numbers are also leaving because of the security situation in the country, poor infrastructure and lack of modern equipment to work with.
“Above all, the rising cost of living is making it practically impossible for an average medical laboratory scientist to provide basic care and quality education for their children,” he said.
