Please Stay In Nigeria, Don’t ‘Japa,’ Minister Tells Newly Inducted Doctors

The Minister of State for Health and Welfare, Tunde Alausa, has appealed against “Japa” to the 416 foreign-trained medical graduates who were recently inducted by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria in Abuja.

The Minister, represented by his Special Adviser, Ismaila Adiatu, made the appeal to the Doctors on Thursday.

Alausa spoke during the induction ceremony, urging the doctors not to leave the country in pursuit of opportunities abroad.

Assuring of the creation of an enabling environment to practice, he emphasised government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, salary and overall working conditions.

He said: “Don’t Japa, stay behind and contribute to your country.

“We are dedicated to providing an environment where you can practice with satisfaction.

“Infrastructure, conditions and salaries will be enhanced.

“Please don’t leave, stay behind for your parents, relatives and to prevent the field from being dominated by unqualified practitioners.”

In the same vein, the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Christie Mato, acting Vice Chancellor of Pamo University of Medical Science, Port Harcourt, underscored the significant responsibilities associated with the title of a medical doctor.

Highlighting the importance of humility in the behaviour of medical professionals, Mato urged the inductees to demonstrate respect and sensitivity towards both parents and colleagues.

In his remarks, the Registrar, Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Tajudeen Sanusi, emphasised the importance of compassion in the medical profession.

While stressing their commitment to ongoing learning and development, Sanusi enjoined the new doctors to be prepared to practice medicine anywhere in the country.