‘Japa Syndrome’ Disrupting Hospital Operations in Nigeria – FMC CMD

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Dr James Enimi Omietimi, has expressed concern over the increasing emigration of health workers, a phenomenon he termed the “Japa syndrome,” which he said severely impacted on health care delivery in Nigeria.

Addressing members of the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State council during their visit to the hospital, Dr Omietimi highlighted the challenges faced due to the departure of health professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.

“Japa syndrome is a major problem, not only for us but hospitals across the country. Clinical personnel such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists and lab scientists are leaving in large numbers daily, leading to severe understaffing and overworking of those remaining,” he lamented.

Dr. Omietimi emphasised that alongside inadequate staffing, issues such as poor remuneration, insecurity and lack of infrastructure contribute to health care crisis in Nigeria. He advocated improved welfare packages, including enhanced salaries, increased retirement age for health workers (from 60 to 65 or 70 years) and better security measures to retain skilled professionals.

“Insecurity is a significant factor driving professionals to migrate to countries like the United Kingdom, USA, Canada and Australia. Health workers are sometimes targeted by criminals, although Bayelsa State experiences relatively less kidnapping when compared to other states,” he explained.

Despite these challenges, Dr Omietimi reassured the public of the hospital’s commitment to providing optimal clinical services, noting the excellence of the cardiovascular section and ongoing efforts in manpower training and research.