The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has revealed that 1,106 medical and dental consultants have left the country in the past five years, leaving a critical gap in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
MDCAN President, Professor Mohammad Aminu Mohammad, disclosed this during a press briefing, stating that out of 6,137 consultants, nearly 30% are over 55 years old, with a third set to retire in the next five years.
He described this trend as alarming, highlighting its profound impact on healthcare delivery, research, and medical education.
According to MDCAN’s analysis, the number of registered practitioners remains insufficient to address the country’s growing healthcare needs, especially as migration continues to deplete the workforce.
The report also detailed statistics on registered practitioners, accredited training centres, and medical schools in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms to retain professionals and address the workforce shortage.
