Nigerians Decry $1.3bn Annual Loss to Medical Tourism, Demand Health Sector Reform

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Growing frustration has trailed the continued reliance of Nigerian public officials on foreign medical care, with citizens and experts condemning the practice as a major drain on the nation’s economy and a reflection of systemic failure in the health sector.

For years, critics have lamented the trend of political leaders and wealthy individuals traveling abroad for treatment of ailments often considered routine, rather than investing in and utilizing local healthcare facilities. Many Nigerians argue that such trips are frequently funded with public resources, placing an unfair burden on citizens who lack access to quality medical care at home.

Public anger is largely driven by the belief that those in positions of power have neglected the health sector despite having the authority and resources to improve it. Observers also point out that many of the foreign hospitals patronized by Nigerian elites are staffed by Nigerian medical professionals who left the country due to poor working conditions.

Recent estimates presented by health experts indicate that Nigeria loses an average of $1.3 billion annually to medical tourism. The figure was highlighted during the fourth Public Health Grand Round organized by the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, where stakeholders discussed strategies for strengthening the country’s health system.

According to the World Health Organization’s Ondo State Coordinator, Dr. Habibu Yahaya, weaknesses in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure—caused by factors such as inadequate funding, strikes, and public health emergencies—contribute significantly to the outflow of funds for overseas treatment.

Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNIMED, Professor Adolphus Loto, emphasized the need to build a resilient health system capable of withstanding both sudden shocks and long-term challenges while maintaining essential services.

Experts at the event identified key issues undermining the sector, including a shortage of healthcare workers, poor remuneration, and inadequate infrastructure. They called for reforms such as improved funding, better welfare packages for medical personnel, enhanced emergency preparedness, and stronger community engagement.

Public affairs analyst James Osewele described the scale of spending on medical tourism as “shameful,” urging the government to enact laws restricting public officials from seeking treatment abroad. He argued that such a policy would compel leaders to invest in local healthcare systems.

Similarly, Lagos-based physician Dr. Davies Olanrewaju noted that the estimated losses may be understated, attributing the continued migration of healthcare professionals to poor pay and unfavorable working conditions.

A nurse, Mrs. Omoruyi Victoria, also criticized the decline in Nigeria’s healthcare standards, recalling a time when the country attracted international patients. She attributed the current state to inadequate funding, noting that Nigeria’s health budget falls below recommended global benchmarks.

Stakeholders agree that addressing these systemic issues could not only reduce capital flight but also create jobs, retain skilled professionals, and position Nigeria as a destination for quality medical services.