Nigeria advertises only 36 health jobs despite worker exodus – NISER

A survey by the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER) reveals that only 36 formal health sector vacancies were advertised in Nigerian newspapers during the first quarter of 2026, despite a significant exodus of healthcare workers, known locally as the 'japa' phenomenon. The study analyzed 778 total vacancies across various sectors, highlighting a severe under-hiring in health. This shortage exacerbates an already strained healthcare system, where professionals are leaving for better opportunities abroad. The findings underscore a disconnect between the scale of worker emigration and the lack of recruitment efforts. No official government response has been reported yet.

Global Impact

The Nigerian health worker exodus contributes to a global brain drain, straining healthcare systems in both source and destination countries. Economically, it reduces Nigeria's human capital and productivity, while destination countries benefit from skilled labor.