The Nigerian federal government has introduced a N110 billion intervention fund to modernize infrastructure in major medical schools nationwide, aiming to address the widespread emigration of healthcare professionals.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa announced the initiative in Abuja during the launch of a ministerial committee overseeing TETFund’s high-impact projects.
Under the plan, N70 billion is earmarked for upgrading medical schools to meet global standards, while N15 billion will fund new student hostels. Additionally, 76 institutions will receive advanced medical simulation centers, and universities are directed to expand medical admission quotas to bolster the training of healthcare workers for domestic and international roles.
Alausa emphasized that the initiative responds to long-standing neglect of medical colleges, which has driven many Nigerian professionals abroad. President Bola Tinubu has instructed key universities to increase medical student intakes as a strategy to mitigate brain drain. The minister highlighted that the policy aims to cultivate a larger pool of skilled personnel for both local healthcare needs and global employment opportunities, with the five-year sustained investment expected to yield tangible results.
Meanwhile, TETFund Board Chairman Aminu Bello Masari, former Katsina State governor, criticized university vice-chancellors for systemic decline in academia. He asserted that consistent funding over the next five years would enhance infrastructure, produce more graduates to serve Nigeria’s population, and equip professionals for international demand.
This intervention underscores efforts to revitalize medical education, retain talent, and position Nigeria as a contributor to the global healthcare workforce.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
The N110 billion TETFund intervention represents a bold step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s medical education system. By investing in infrastructure, simulation centers, and increased enrollment, the government aims to address long-standing neglect, meet domestic healthcare needs, and position Nigeria as a contributor to the global healthcare workforce.
The initiative’s success will depend on transparent implementation, sustained funding, and complementary reforms in the healthcare sector.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM VERILY NEWS
