Over 4,600 Nigerian Doctors Relocate to UK Since Tinubu Took Office

Nigeria’s healthcare system is facing renewed pressure following the migration of thousands of medical professionals abroad, with no fewer than 4,691 doctors relocating to the United Kingdom since Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

Data from the General Medical Council shows that the number of Nigerian-trained doctors practising in the UK has risen to about 15,692, making Nigeria one of the largest sources of foreign-trained doctors in Britain, second only to India.

The development represents not only a growing workforce shortage but also a major economic setback. With the Federal Government estimating that it costs about $21,000 to train a single doctor, the country has lost approximately $98.5m in training investments within less than two years.

Health experts warn that the trend is worsening an already strained system, as Nigeria’s doctor-to-population ratio remains around 3.9 per 10,000 people—far below the benchmark recommended by the World Health Organization.

Professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association and the National Association of Resident Doctors, have repeatedly attributed the mass exodus to poor remuneration, unsafe working conditions, and inadequate infrastructure.

They note that many doctors are overworked and underpaid, with younger professionals particularly affected by limited training opportunities and increasing burnout.

The migration trend continues despite significant spending on medical tourism by Nigerians. Reports indicate that foreign exchange outflows for health-related travel reached $549.29m in the first nine months of 2025, highlighting a growing reliance on overseas healthcare services.

Public health experts say while government policies aimed at managing workforce migration are a step in the right direction, deeper structural issues—such as insecurity, cost of living, and weak welfare systems—must be addressed to retain skilled professionals.

They warn that without urgent reforms, Nigeria risks further depletion of its healthcare workforce, especially in rural and underserved areas where the shortage of medical personnel is already critical.