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Japa: Lagos Suffers Deficit Of 30,000 Doctors, Commissioner Laments

Published

5 months ago

March 27, 2025

Editor

…as Sanwo-Olu approves the expansion of LASUCOM, the conversion of isolation centres

…to train 12,500 health professionals in 5yrs

Lagos State currently faces a deficit of 30,000 doctors and a significant shortage of nurses, pharmacists, dentists, laboratory scientists, and other allied health professionals.

This comes as State Government handed over key medical infrastructure to contractors for conversion into modern academic facilities aimed to combat the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in the state. The moves followed approval by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The infrastructure include; Expansion of Lagos State University College of Medicine, LASUCOM, the transformation of the CACOVID Isolation Centre at the Infectious Disease Hospital, IDH, into large lecture theatres and multi-disciplinary laboratories, and the conversion of the Cardio-Renal Centre at Gbagada General Hospital into academic offices and tutorial lecture rooms.

This ambitious expansion of key medical education facilities is geared towards accommodating the imminent increase in student admissions across critical medical disciplines, including medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health professions.

The goal is to scale up student admissions from the current 200 to 2,500 annually within the next five years, significantly increasing Lagos’ capacity to train healthcare professionals.

Speaking at the official handover of the facilities, the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stressed that the initiative was a response to the severe shortage of human resources for health, exacerbated by the sustained outbound migration of medical professionals, otherwise known as Japa syndrome.

According to him, “Lagos currently faces a deficit of 30,000 doctors and a significant shortage of nurses, pharmacists, dentists, laboratory scientists, and other allied health professionals.

“The expansion is part of a broader two-pronged strategy approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to mitigate the crisis. The first approach is to produce more healthcare professionals by increasing student intake, which necessitates a substantial expansion of tertiary education infrastructure.

“The government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved a phased expansion of infrastructure to accommodate an increased intake of students in medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health sciences.

“Our target is to scale up annual student admissions from 200 to 2,500 over the next five years,” Abayomi revealed.

He explained that the second approach is to ensure tha students receive quality training, requiring accreditation from regulatory bodies.

To achieve this, he explained that three critical requirements must be met: Adequate space for training, a sufficient number of academic instructors, and access to a diverse patient population for hands-on clinical training.

“Training healthcare professionals is not just about lecture halls; it requires practical exposure in laboratories and patient care settings. Our expansion plan ensures that all these elements are in place,” he stated.

“In healthcare, bigger is always better. It is preferable to have more capacity than to underestimate future needs.

“The expanded infrastructure will not only support increased student intake but also enhance Lagos’ credibility with accreditation bodies like the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and the National Universities Commission (NUC),” he added.

The commissioner highlighted that the project will provide 1,600 additional lecture theatre seats, 1,600 laboratory spaces, and 110 new office spaces for lecturers and academic staff.

He assured that Lagos State Infrastructure Asset Management Agency, LASIAMA, will oversee the execution to ensure adherence to the highest construction standards.

Expressing gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Abayomi commended their swift response to the crisis. “Their vision and commitment to healthcare and education reform have enabled us to act decisively.

“In four months, we expect to return here to commission these facilities for academic use,” he concluded.

The State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, praised the initiative as a vital step towards addressing the human capital deficit in the health sector.

“Lagos is land-constrained, so we must maximize existing facilities. The Ministry of Health has graciously repurposed underutilized assets to expand medical education infrastructure,” he noted.

He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to improving health education. “Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Hamzat have shown unwavering support for the health sector. This expansion will not only enhance learning for our students but also strengthen the entire healthcare delivery system in Lagos,” Sule remarked.

Sule stressed that Sanwo-Olu and his administration have consistently prioritized healthcare education, approving initiatives that enhance training institutions and hospitals.

“We are grateful for the government’s unwavering support. This expansion will ensure that our students receive world-class training in an environment equipped with the necessary facilities,” he added.

The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, stressed that the expansion project is crucial for securing accreditation from regulatory bodies.

“We recently increased our medical student intake to 200 in response to federal directives.

“However, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and the Nursing Council require us to demonstrate sufficient infrastructure before granting full accreditation,” she explained.

“Just a few days ago, we were at the court of governors, discussing the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades to support increased student intake. The MDCN has mandated medical schools to double their intake, but accreditation is not automatic. This project ensures that we meet the regulatory requirements,” Olatunji-Bello added.

Olatunji-Bello acknowledged that the existing LASUCOM infrastructure was originally designed for 50 students per cohort, making expansion imperative. “With today’s handover, we are moving in the right direction. This will put us in a strong position to meet MDCN and NUC standards.”

She expressed confidence that the new facilities would help LASU meet accreditation standards. “With the support of the state government, we are in a strong position to expand our health programs sustainably. This initiative ensures we produce well-trained professionals to serve Lagos and beyond.”

The Chief Medical Director of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, described the project as a long-overdue response to Lagos’ growing healthcare needs. “LASUTH plays a critical role in training medical students and postgraduate doctors. This expansion will ease the burden on our facilities and create an optimal learning environment,” he said.

Ms. Adenike Adekanbi, General Manager of LASIAMA, assured that her agency would ensure high-quality project execution. “We have engaged top-tier contractors with proven track records. Our mandate is to deliver world-class academic facilities on schedule and within budget.”

She reiterated LASIAMA’s commitment to maintaining infrastructure standards. “We will monitor progress rigorously to ensure these buildings meet the needs of future healthcare professionals in Lagos State.”

“The infrastructure expansion marks a significant milestone in Lagos State’s efforts to address the healthcare workforce gap. By repurposing existing facilities and strategically scaling up medical education, the initiative ensures that more students can be trained, ultimately strengthening the state’s healthcare system.

“With the strategic investment, Lagos is laying the groundwork for a robust healthcare workforce, ensuring a future where its residents have access to well-trained medical professionals,” Adekanbi stated.

(VANGUARD)

News

UNIBEN School of Dentistry Holds Free Oral Health Outreach, Unveils Remodeled Dental Clinic On Campus

Published

16 minutes ago

August 13, 2025

Editor

The Dean, School of Dentistry, University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof.(Mrs) Idia Ize-Iyamu on Wednesday flagged-off the institution’s School of Dentistry free Oral Health Outreach and treatment programme, tagged” Operation Know Your Oral Health Status and Take Control of your General Health “.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu, who is the Chief Medical Director (CMD) designate of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) said the exercise was to herald the 10th Distinguished Lecture Series and the Annual Scientific Conference of the University of Benin School of Dentistry in collaboration with the Department of Community Dental Health , the department of Periodontics and the UNIBEN Health Centre Dental.

Prof Ize-Iyamu also performed the
Commissioning of the Renovated and fully equipped dental clinic in UNIBEN donated by the family of Dr. Victor Ovbiagele of blessed memory.

She noted that the University of Benin School of Dentistry is committed to educating the people on the many benefits of oral health hygiene.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu hailed the visionary leadership of the University of Benin Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Edoba Omoregie for investing and improving the physical facilities, equipment, and remodeling of the institution’s health centre .

Prof. Ize-Iyamu pledged her commitment to enhance quality of care by ensuring that healthcare services are delivered to a high standard, with skilled personnel and adherence to best practices.

“We are giving back to the society by way of this free Oral Health Outreach and treatment programme. Our Vice-Chancellor’s mandate is to ensure staff and students’ welfare .This event is in commemoration of 10th public lecture series and our School of Dentistry Annual Scientific Conference .”She said.

While commissioning the UNIBEN dental clinic, Prof. Ize-Iyamu charged alumni to pick a project as part of their contribution to their Alma mater.

She expressed appreciation to the Ovbiagele family for the renovation of the dental clinic, saying the family of Dr Victor Ovbiagele have etched their name in gold as a result of the donation of the dental clinic.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Benin Prof. Christopher Osubor, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof . Edoba Omoregie said the university community is proud to identify with the school of dentistry for organizing the free dental care and treatment outreach for staff and students.

The DVC described the renovated and fully equipped dental clinic in UNIBEN as a world-class healthcare facility.

In his remark, Dean Faculty of Law (UNIBEN) Prof. Bright Bazuaye expressed his appreciation to the dean of the school of Dentistry (UNIBEN), Prof. (Mrs) Idia Ize-Iyamu and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Edoba Omoregie (SAN) for extending the free dental care gesture to staff and students of the faculty of law.

On his part, Chairman Local Organizing Committee (LOC), School of Dentistry free Oral Health Outreach and treatment, Dr. Philip Ogordi said over 150 staff and students of the UNIBEN faculty of Law benefited in the exercise aimed at ensuring staff and students’ wellbeing in terms of oral health hygiene.

Ogordi said the free dental health care treatment is in line with the mandate of the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Edoba Omoregie (SAN) vision to promote the overall well-being of staff and students on campus.

Ohioma Ovbiagele, son of the Late Edo Commissioner of Health, who spoke on behalf of the Ovbiagele family, said that the renovated and fully equipped dental clinic is in commemoration of the 20 years remembrance of their patriarch, Late Dr. Victor Oamien Ovbiagele .

Personalities at the event include Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Justice Roland Amaize (rtd), Dr. Dan Aigbavboa, Ven. David Egbenusi, Prof. Wilson Sadoh, Prof. Osawe Omoregie, Prof. Joan Enabulele and Mrs Rosemary Ovbiagele, matriarch of the family of the former Edo Commissioner of Health, Dr. Victor Ovbiagele of blessed memory and donor of the renovated dental clinic at UNIBEN among others.

News

FG Gives KWAM 1 Aviation Appointment, After Airport Incident

Published

2 hours ago

August 13, 2025

Editor

The Federal Government has announced plans to engage Fuji star, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol, after the recent controversy over his conduct at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
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‎This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement outlining resolutions to recent cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.
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‎Keyamo said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s flight ban to one month and would work with the musician to promote awareness on acceptable conduct within the aviation space.
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‎The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria will lead the engagement process.

READ ALSO:Man Jailed For Cybercrime, Forfeits Cars, Land, $42,000 To FG
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‎”The NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.
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‎”Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the police,” the statement read.
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‎The minister added that the decision followed appeals from well-meaning individuals, as well as KWAM 1’s public show of penitence over the August 5 incident in which he allegedly obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.
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‎Keyamo also revealed that the NCAA would withdraw its criminal complaints against the artiste.

READ ALSO:NCAA Stops Fuji Star K1 De Ultimate From Flying For Six Months
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‎The development comes days after the musician apologised to the public, insisting the flask he carried on the day of the incident contained water for medical reasons and not alcohol, as was alleged by security personnel.
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‎The minister emphasised that the clemency was granted on “compassionate grounds” , warning that the government remained committed to enforcing safety and security laws in the aviation sector.
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‎On August 5, KWAM 1 was involved in a confrontation with airline staff and security officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, while attempting to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos.

READ ALSO: Air Peace Jet Hits Antelope At Asaba Airport, NCAA Reacts
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He was accused of carrying a prohibited flask believed to contain alcohol, spilling its contents on personnel, and later walking onto the aircraft’s tarmac, allegedly blocking the plane from taxiing.
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The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority described the act as a breach of aviation safety regulations and initially placed him on a six-month no-fly list while filing a criminal complaint with the police.

News

Gov. Mohammed Flags Off Cybernation Program In Bauchi, Targets 100, 000 Citizens On Digital Skill

Published

5 hours ago

August 13, 2025

Editor

In a determined move to position Bauchi State as a hub for digital innovation and a technologically-driven state, Governor Bala Mohammed on Tuesday flagged off what he called a “Cybernations” program–
an intensive cybersecurity training initiative.

This ambitious program known as the Digital Literacy and Skill Framework Bauchi Initiative, the project, developed in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), will provide basic digital skills training to more than 100,000 citizens by 2027.

Speaking at the launching in Bauchi on Tuesday, the governor said the initiative “marks a turning point for our state’s economic future” and will ensure that citizens, especially young people, can participate fully in the global digital economy.

He added that DL4ALL will integrate digital education into schools and workforce development policies, creating a talent pipeline for both local and international employers.

He also said it will offer advanced training to 2,000 youths in high-demand technology fields such as software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity among others.

He said, “We acknowledge that Information Technology is today and in the foreseeable future the fastest growing industry and one with increasing capacity to absorb young people with skills. Its advantage is such that everyone can undertake training and acquire skills, be certified and create a sustainable source of livelihood leveraging on its power.

“Our vision is clear: to transform Bauchi into a digitally inclusive, economically vibrant, and innovation-driven state. We aim to harness technology not just as a tool, but as a catalyst for economic diversification, human capital development, and social transformation.”

Also, the Managing Director, Galaxy Backbone, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju in a goodwill message Harped on the importance of cybersecurity awareness in today’s digital age.

He highlighted the need for collective efforts to equip Nigerians with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in a digital society.

He added that through visionary leadership of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Muhammed, Galaxy Backbone has successfully extended its digital infrastructure to Bauchi via fibre optic connectivity and deployed 3 eLTE base stations to deliver true broadband internet access.

Country Representative of Protexxa’s Abi -Hafsat Abubakar, described the initiative as a gateway to over 3,5 million global cyber security jobs.

“The Cyber Nation programme, in partnership with Protexxa Inc, is the first of its kind in Nigeria and second in Africa, whereby 500 youths will be trained as certified cyber security experts with dire f pathway to local and international employment, including opportunities to earn foreign currency”.

Speaking in the same vein, the Director General Bauchi State Bureau for Information and Communication Technology, (BICTDE), Hayatudeen Babamaji noted that the Bauchi State Cyber Nations Program, in partnership with Protexxa Inc., under the leadership of Governor Balance Mohammed is a pioneering initiative the first of its kind in Nigeria and second in Africa.

Babamaji added that the program will train youths to become world-class cybersecurity professionals, equipping them with the skills to protect critical infrastructure and participate competitively in the global digital economy.

“As we launch these programs, I want to reaffirm that this is not random. Our vision is clear, our direction is set, and with the collaborative programs such as these, we will achieve our goal of making Bauchi State an ICT hub not just for the North East region but whole of Nigeria and beyond”.

Other critical stakeholders include the Chief Operating Officer, Protexxa Inc. Canada, Rick Huijbregts, Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communication Commission,(NCC) Dr. Aminu Maida, National Commissioner, Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr. Vincent Olatunji and MD, Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited, Mrs Nkechi Idehen among others.