As the japa syndrome continues unabated, more than 400 consultant anaesthetists have exited Nigeria in search of better placement within the last two years.
President of the Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists, Dr Olubusola Alagbe-Briggs disclosed this on Wednesday in Gombe on the sideline of the society’s 31st Annual Scientific Conference with the theme: “Anaesthesia and Pre-operative Care of Patients With Cancers.”
She noted that anaesthetists are the most sought-after specialists in foreign lands because of the peculiarity of their services.
Alagbe-Briggs pointed out that there is a global shortage of anaesthetists due to the nature of their job which is intensive, acute and focused.
“We had about 1,200 members in the past, but today, we have only 800 members. Those countries that are short of anaesthetists are pulling those here in Nigeria to their countries.
“Nigerian professionals are the best. They are highly sought-after by other countries.
“Medical practitioners and other professionals will continue to emigrate until their welfare and available equipment are improved,’’ she added.
The president hinted that the availability of appropriate equipment and improved welfare are essential to improve medical practice and services.
She noted that the association is working assiduously to assist the Federal Government in improving cancer care, adding that anaesthetists are involved in pain relief, emergency care and intensive care.
“We are in Gombe to brainstorm on how to improve our specialty in line with the theme of the conference, learn from one another and share research outcomes,’’ Alagbe-Briggs said.
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