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Nigeria Introduces Policy To Revitalise Healthcare System

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Mr Pate said the policy would create an environment that encourages professional development and stability, even as it seeks to retain the best talent within Nigeria.
To transform the nation’s healthcare landscape, the Nigerian government has introduced a policy targeted at addressing the workforce challenges facing the health sector.
The new initiative, which is tagged: “National Policy on Health Workforce Migration,” is aimed at tackling “the critical challenges facing the country’s health human resources, aiming to manage, harness, and reverse the migration of healthcare professionals.”
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, disclosed this on his X handle last Monday evening, noting that the policy aims to stem the exodus of healthcare professionals.
He wrote on his X handle: “This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it’s a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration. It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilised to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians”.
The minister also stated an important aspect of the vision lies with the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which he said establishes a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and rewards they merit.
He said it would create an environment that encourages professional development and stability, adding that the policy seeks to retain the best talent within Nigeria.
According to the minister, as the world becomes increasingly digital, incorporating cutting-edge health technologies for healthcare management is crucial. The policy’s emphasis on digital health infrastructure, including Electronic Medical Records (EMR), telehealth, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry, represents a major milestone towards a more efficient and data-driven healthcare system.
Mr Pate said these technological advancements will simplify healthcare delivery, promote fair distribution of health workers, and guarantee access to quality care for all Nigerians.
“Capacity building is a cornerstone of the policy, focusing on continuous professional development through strategic partnerships and international training to equip healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills, demonstrating a commitment to retaining and empowering the workforce,” the minister noted.
Furthermore, he said the policy will facilitate the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from abroad by simplifying registration processes and offering attractive incentives, leveraging their expertise to fill gaps in the health sector and strengthening the healthcare system.
He said: “Also, the policy champions reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These bilateral and multilateral agreements are designed to protect national interests while respecting the rights and aspirations of our healthcare professionals. We call on recipient countries to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker to replace every publicly trained Nigerian worker they receive.
“Recognising the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, especially for younger doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.”
The minister said the National Human Resources for Health Programme will oversee the policy’s implementation in collaboration with state governments, ensuring responsible execution and alignment with broader health objectives noting that the decisive action will secure the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system, catalysing transformation and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians under President’s leadership.
He called on stakeholders to help build a world-class healthcare system for Nigeria.
“As we embark on this journey, all stakeholders are invited to contribute to building a healthcare system that reflects our nation’s potential and promise,” he said.
Mr Pate, a professor, recently revealed that the country faces a severe shortage of doctors, with only 55,000 licensed doctors serving a population of over 200 million.
The minister, during an interview with Channels TV, stated that in the last five years, 16,000 doctors have left the country, and 17,000 have been transferred.
He expressed concern about the mass exodus of healthcare professionals and other skilled workers seeking better opportunities abroad, leaving Nigeria with a bare minimum of professionals to manage the healthcare system.
He added that the country has approximately 300,000 health professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other medical staff.
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New Rivers CP assures of non partisan …moves against human rights violation

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The new Rivers state commissioner of police ,CP Olugbenga Adepoju has assured that his administration will remain apolitical in the discharge of his duties in the state.

Adepoju who officially assumed office last Friday as the 47th police commissioner of police stated this during his median press briefing held at state police command over the weekend in Port Harcourt.

He assured that under his watch as the police helmsman in the state his administration will ensure protection of human rights and warn that any police officer who violate the rights of people will be sanctioned in accordance with the police act and
urged Rivers people to hold the Police accountable, share view of people with police.

“We are committed to transparency.

My priority is to ensure safety, security and welfare of all residents in the state.
Being an economic hub of the country,the state faces challenges of crisis from political interest, economic sabotage illegal oil bunkering.

“I will ensure Rivers people sleep with their two eyes close. I have what it takes to keep the command safe.We do Intelligence gathering work with community and public engagement to proactively prevent crime.We have meetings and seminars with members of the public.”

“We will enforce discipline and ensure zero tolerance for corruption.I have my team.I will put them to work.There will be improvement on the part of my officers.

“We will Combat youth restiveness and cultism, oil theft, environmental crime. we will work with other agencies to ensure is reduce to the barest minimum.

“We will enhance response time and police visibility. We do all we can for our men to respond to distress call in time. We will deploy more men in metro. More visibility policing.

“We will address land grabbing issues.We will work with our legal team. If we have to partake in any execution order, we will look at it critically.

“We will enforce all vehicle regulations with human face. Especially tinted glasses. We may excuse those that have it from the factory. Either the vehicle will be impounded, the tinted glass removed or they are charged to court.

“Our men will not violate rights of citizens. If there is any violation of rights, it should be reported to the police for necessary actions. Our men will be more professional and polite to the people “he stated

CP Adepoju however urged residents of the state,the media and all necessary stakeholders to give the Police the relevant cooperation and support for effective policing of the society.

 

Akujobi amadi

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Police invites assaulted female victim, assures of protection

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The Rivers State Police Command says it has acknowledged a social media report on alleged assault of a lady by police officers along Evo Road, Port Harcourt.

A statement signed by the police public Relations Officer (PPRO),SP Grace Iringe Koko in Port Harcourt, yesterday said the police acknowledged the report of such alleged assault and invite the lady involved to visit the command so as to enable the command to commence investigation with a view to apprehend the officers involved.

“We urge the lady involved to visit the Police Headquarters to enable a thorough investigation into the matter. This step will assist us in identifying the officers involved and ensuring that appropriate actions are taken.”

“The Command appeals to members of the public to cooperate with police officers during stop-and-search operations, as these measures are essential in combating crime and maintaining security.”

“We also encourage residents to report any misconduct by police officers through the following channels:
• PPRO: 0816 135 5218
• Control Room: 08032003514, 08098880134
• Complaint Response Unit (CRU): 07057605256, 08120822987, 07072323049, 07057605209”

“Your cooperation is vital in helping us maintain accountability and professionalism within the Rivers State Police Command.
Thank you.”

 

Akujobi Amadi

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Opobo Elder Statesman Lauds Fubara’s Christmas Bonus to Civil Servants …Celebrates Recognition As Public Office Holder of the Year 2024

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The Chairman of Opobo Elder Statesmen-4-Sim, Alabo Edwin Cockeye-Brown, has expressed appreciation to Rivers State governor, Amaopusenibo Siminalayi Fubara over his granting of #100,000 as Christmas bonus to the entire spectrum of civil servants across the State.

Speaking with journalists at his residence in Port Harcourt, yesterday. Alabo Cockeye-Brown said the generous gesture from the governor undoubtedly brought joy and relief to many families during the festive season.

“In these challenging economic times, such initiatives are a testament to Governor Fubara’s commitment to the welfare of our public servants. It is a clear indication that he values their hard work and sacrifices, “he stated.

Alabo Cockeye-Brown, who is the Vice Chairman of Opobo Council of Alapu, emphasized the importance of supporting civil servants, who play a crucial role in the development and governance of the state.

“These men and women dedicate their lives to serving the public. The Christmas bonus is not just financial assistance; it’s a recognition of their relentless efforts and a way to uplift their spirits ahead of the New Year,” he added.

In addition to celebrating the Christmas bonus, Alabo Cockeye-Brown took the opportunity to congratulate Governor Fubara on being awarded the Public Office Holder of the Year 2024.

He said the recognition is well-deserved, adding that the governor has shown exceptional leadership and vision, steering the state towards progress and prosperity.

“His dedication to uplifting the lives of our citizens is commendable, and we are proud to have him leading us”, he said.

Alabo Cockeye-Brown also called on other leaders in the state to follow Fubara’s example, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to enhance public service delivery and improve the living standards of the people.

“Let us work together to ensure that every citizen feels the impact of good governance,” he urged.

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