
Lagos Health Sector Faces Severe Manpower Shortage, Says Health Commissioner
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has raised concerns about a critical shortage of medical professionals in Nigeria, with Lagos particularly affected by a deficit of 30,000 medical practitioners.
Manpower Crisis in Lagos Amidst Growing Population
With a burgeoning population of over 20 million, Lagos is grappling with an increasing shortage of doctors. Prof. Abayomi highlighted that the trend of medical professionals emigrating for better opportunities abroad is severely impacting the local health sector.
Addressing the Shortage at LASUCOM Induction Ceremony
Speaking at the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) induction ceremony for its 18th set of graduating medical doctors and 8th set of graduating dental surgeons, Prof. Abayomi emphasized the negative effects of the massive relocation of doctors. He urged the new graduates to specialize in various fields and contribute to improving Nigeria’s health sector.
“We have to start something and start from this graduation. There is a shortage of about 30,000 medical professionals in Lagos,” Abayomi said. He acknowledged the desire of many graduates to seek opportunities abroad but encouraged them to consider making an impact in Nigeria, either by staying or eventually returning.
Support and Encouragement from Health Sector Leaders
Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, Chief Medical Director of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, commended the Lagos State Government for its continuous support in developing the institution. He stressed the importance of the graduates contributing to the local health sector.
Prof. Abiodun Adewuya, Provost of LASUCOM, encouraged the inductees to broaden their horizons and strive for excellence in their chosen fields. He mentioned that LASUCOM aims to become the top medical school in the South West and produce at least 1,000 medical doctors in the next five years. Many alumni are already making significant contributions to the global health sector, bringing pride to the institution.
Call to Action for New Graduates
Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academics, Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan, congratulated the new graduates and urged them to stay in Nigeria to help address the country’s health challenges. She emphasized that the government has heavily subsidized their education, and their contributions are vital for the nation’s healthcare development.
Induction Ceremony Highlights
Eighty-one new medical professionals were inducted on Thursday by the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Dr. Fatima Kyari. Top honors were awarded to Okenwa Rejoice Chisom, the overall Best Medical Student, and Okoh Gloria Anuoluwa, the top dental student.
LASUCOM’s Achievements
To date, LASUCOM has produced 1,093 medical doctors and 51 dental surgeons, demonstrating its commitment to addressing Nigeria’s healthcare needs.
For more information and updates on healthcare developments in Lagos, visit Lagos State Ministry of Health and follow their official channels.