George Ebong, the newly appointed chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in the Federal Capital Territory, has proposed a roadmap for the government to mitigate the mass departure of physicians. During his Saturday inauguration in Abuja, Ebong identified improved welfare packages as the primary remedy for the ongoing migration crisis, commonly known as the japa syndrome.
Ebong emphasized that medical professionals frequently leave the country in pursuit of better economic opportunities. He committed his tenure to advocating for enhanced conditions, promising to engage authorities to ensure local environments become favorable enough to retain domestic talent. Furthermore, he warned that any violence against medical practitioners would be met with firm resistance from the association.
Highlighting the role of the private sector, Ebong urged the government to support private healthcare facilities that fill critical gaps in public service. He suggested that these institutions require state assistance to offset high tax burdens and allow them to provide more affordable care. National NMA President, Prof. Afekhide Omoti, called on the new leadership to foster cohesion within the organization, while Dr. Kamil Shoretire of the Federal Ministry of Labour reaffirmed the government’s willingness to partner with medical professionals. Recent data indicates that 3,919 doctors exited Nigeria during 2025.
