Senate President Godswill Akpabio has voiced concerns over the growing trend of mass migration among skilled Nigerians, urging citizens to prioritise their love for the nation over the pursuit of financial gain abroad.
His comments came during a Senate session on Tuesday, October 8, where the rising rate of emigration, particularly among professionals, was under discussion.
Akpabio expressed concern about Nigeria’s loss of talent, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare and education.
He stressed that while many Nigerians seek better opportunities abroad, the nation would benefit greatly if those who acquired skills overseas returned home to contribute to Nigeria’s growth.
“The country is losing its expertise. If they acquired those expertise and returned to Nigeria, it would have been better,” Akpabio remarked.
He noted that Nigeria’s development could be significantly accelerated if skilled professionals brought their expertise back to the country rather than permanently relocating abroad.
Acknowledging the challenging working conditions that drive many to leave, Akpabio called for a balance between personal gain and national service.
“I also think the conditions of service are quite responsible. I believe people should place love for their country above financial gains. That is why many of us choose to remain here,” he said.
The Senate President highlighted the severe impact of the brain drain, especially in the health and education sectors, which have been particularly hard-hit by the exodus of skilled workers.
“The brain drain is a big problem, not just in the educational sector, but particularly in the health sector – it is affecting us a lot,” Akpabio said.
Citing reports, he pointed out that there are as many as 22,000 Nigerian health professionals in the United States alone, many of whom are excelling in their fields.
“The greatest professionals in medicine in the USA, from what I read, some people say we have almost 22,000 health workers there who are Nigerians, and they are doing extremely well,” Akpabio added.
In the educational sector, Akpabio noted that staff shortages are creating significant challenges, leaving many departments severely understaffed.
“In the educational sector, the disadvantages are too numerous because some of the departments do not have even up to 50 percent staff strength. So what then are you teaching our children?” he questioned.
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