President Bola Tinubu has appealed to Nigerian doctors and other healthcare professionals living abroad to return home and support the country’s healthcare system. Speaking during the 2026 National Diaspora Day celebration in Abuja, the President said Nigeria needs the knowledge, experience, and innovation of its skilled professionals to improve healthcare services across the country.
Tinubu praised members of the Nigerian Diaspora Medical Associations Worldwide for organising medical outreach programmes in different parts of Nigeria. He encouraged them to continue giving back to the country and urged more healthcare workers abroad to consider returning permanently to help strengthen hospitals and train the next generation of medical professionals.
The President acknowledged that many Nigerians leave the country in search of better opportunities but said they can use the skills and experience gained overseas to make a positive impact back home. He also assured the delegation that his administration is investing in reforms aimed at improving the health sector and creating a better environment for healthcare workers.
The appeal comes as Nigeria continues to face a shortage of doctors due to the increasing number of medical professionals relocating abroad. While some have welcomed the President’s call, others believe that improving salaries, working conditions, hospital equipment, and staff welfare will be key to convincing more Nigerian doctors to return home.