By Gwurld4026 
Nurses: Gov. Mbah Appeals Against Leaving Healthcare
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has appealed to nursing students to remain in the state after graduation to help mitigate the ongoing brain drain in the healthcare sector. Speaking at the maiden matriculation ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic session of the Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences, Governor Mbah emphasized the state’s substantial investment in their education and the need for graduates to contribute to the local healthcare system.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Governor Mbah addressed the trend of professionals seeking opportunities abroad, commonly referred to as the “japa syndrome.” He stated, “We don’t train you and after spending all that money in infrastructure and the first opportunity you get you leave our healthcare facilities.”
The governor assured students that the administration is committed to improving working conditions to make local employment more attractive. He highlighted that the state’s highest investments in the 2024 and 2025 budgets are in education and health, reflecting a dedication to creating a supportive environment for healthcare professionals.
This appeal comes amid broader national concerns about the emigration of healthcare workers. In March 2024, the Federal Government implemented a policy requiring health workers intending to work abroad to resign before leaving, aiming to curb the exodus. Additionally, Chief Medical Directors have warned that if the current trend continues, Nigerian hospitals could face severe staffing shortages within two years.