Reps seek compulsory 5 year service to Nigeria by doctors before going abroad
The second reading of a bill sponsored by Rep. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson, titled “A Bill for an Act to Modify the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act, Cap. M379, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004” has been approved by the House of Representatives.
The bill proposes that Nigerian-trained medical or dental practitioners should work for a minimum of five years in the country before being granted full licenses to practice.
This measure aims to address the increasing number of medical professionals leaving Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad. During the reading, Johnson argued that doctors who received taxpayer subsidies for their training should give back to society by working in Nigeria before exporting their skills.
While the majority of lawmakers supported the bill, some called for flexibility and options. One member opposed the bill, stating that it was akin to enslavement to tie doctors down for five years in Nigeria before seeking employment abroad.
Despite the opposition, the bill passed for the second reading by majority voice vote. The Speaker, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, presided over the plenary of the House in Abuja on Thursday.
