Tag:

EMIGRATION

Tinubu Expresses Concern, Working to Reverse ‘Japa’ Trend

by KINGSLEY OYEMA November 21, 2023

The Presidency has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu is deeply troubled by the ongoing exodus of health workers from Nigeria and is actively engaged in efforts to reverse the trend. The revelation was made by Salma Anas, the Special Adviser to the President on Public Health Matters, during the 2023 Annual Conference of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists in Abuja on Monday.

Anas conveyed Tinubu’s concerns regarding the ‘japa syndrome,’ a term used to describe the migration of skilled professionals, particularly health workers, seeking better opportunities abroad. According to Anas, this challenge has persisted from previous administrations, prompting Tinubu to undertake measures aimed at addressing the root causes.

Speaking at the conference, Anas underscored the President’s commitment to combatting the ‘japa syndrome’ and ensuring the retention of medical experts within the country. She highlighted the multifaceted approach being adopted, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment that motivates health workers to stay.

“President Bola Tinubu is worried about the ‘japa syndrome’ which we inherited from previous administrations for obvious reasons. Part of our commitment is that we want to reverse that ugly trend and ensure that we sustain and retain our medical experts within the country through several interventions and measures,” stated Anas.

The Presidential aide outlined key aspects of the administration’s strategy, including regular payment of salaries and allowances for health sector workers. Additionally, efforts are underway to enhance working conditions and facilities, particularly at the primary level of healthcare, through the provision of state-of-the-art medical facilities.

Anas emphasized that the government’s proactive measures are aimed at motivating health workers and addressing the underlying factors contributing to the ‘japa syndrome.‘ The goal is to create a sustainable healthcare workforce in Nigeria, promoting the country’s overall well-being.

The proposed interventions reflect a broader strategy to fortify and enhance Nigeria’s healthcare system.

November 21, 2023 0 comment

Bishop Matthew Kukah Expresses Concern Over Limited Travel Capacity of Nigerians Amid Economic Challenges

by ONUAH YVONNE November 3, 2023

written by ONUAH YVONNE

During a keynote address at the 3rd annual national public lecture in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Bishop of Sokoto Diocese of the Catholic Church, voiced his concerns about the limited travel capacity of many Nigerians. The lecture was themed, “The Nigerian Question: Survival of the Federation in the Throes of Increasing Economic Challenges.”

Bishop Kukah empathized with Nigerians who face numerous challenges that restrict their ability to travel abroad. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to contemplate the nation’s path forward, acknowledging that despite the problems faced by every country, the unique challenges in Nigeria require its own tailored solutions for development.

Kukah pointed out that Nigeria’s current situation involves a fundamental question: Can the country democratize and achieve progress? He emphasized the complexity of this issue, noting that Nigeria is not the same as other nations because it has a distinct history and needs to find its own path to development. The bishop mentioned that certain foundational aspects need to be in place for democracy to thrive and benefit the people, particularly addressing the issues related to livelihood and basic needs.

While discussing the challenges facing Nigeria, Kukah stressed that it is vital to settle the pervasive “bread and butter mentality” before genuine democratic progress can occur. He cautioned that without addressing this fundamental issue, democracy in Nigeria may appear as a mere lottery.

In his remarks, Bishop Kukah also highlighted that those responsible for Nigeria’s problems are not immune to the consequences of their actions, emphasizing that even they do not experience peace.

Kukah concluded by stating that addressing a nation’s problems requires the collaborative effort of both citizens and purposeful leaders. He recognized that challenges exist in every country worldwide but that meaningful change can be achieved through collective action and visionary leadership.

November 3, 2023 0 comment

Special Features

Minister of Youth Development Assures Nigerians of Measures to Address Youth Immigration

by ONUAH YVONNE October 21, 2023

written by ONUAH YVONNE

The Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Ibrahim, has provided assurance to the Nigerian public that the administration led by Bola Tinubu is actively working to establish measures that will address the mass emigration of young people from the country.

This declaration was made on Friday during a youth engagement event known as the ‘Youth Agenda Summit,’ held under the theme ‘Actioning the Nigeria We Want.‘ The summit was organized by ILEAD AFRICA.

Representing the Minister at the summit, an Assistant Director in the Ministry, Oyekan Adedoyin, urged the youth to cultivate innovation and actively contribute to the development of the nation.

Minister Ibrahim emphasized the pivotal role that young people play in the country and urged them to actively participate in the nation-building process. She acknowledged the complexity of Nigeria as a nation but underlined the government’s commitment to establish a conducive environment for both the country and its citizens.

She stated, “Nigeria, as we have it, is so complex, but we need to be part of the building process. Government is ready and actively working. One of the first steps taken by the government is the establishment of a dedicated youth ministry that stands independently. There has been an increase in youth appointments to various positions, which serves as a clear call to action for the youth.”

Regarding the issue of youth emigration, Minister Ibrahim acknowledged that while migration is a common global phenomenon, the government is working to create conditions that encourage young Nigerians to stay and contribute to their home country. She also hinted at forthcoming innovative solutions designed to address this concern.

“As we embark upon this transformative journey, let us seize this moment to amplify the voices of our youth, cultivate collaborative endeavors, and ignite positive change,” she concluded.

The reassurance from the Minister reflects the government’s commitment to harness the potential of Nigeria’s young population and foster an environment that encourages them to remain in the country while actively participating in its development.

October 21, 2023 0 comment