Nigeria has formally called for a new global compact on health workforce mobility, urging the international community to adopt ethical recruitment frameworks that protect the stability of healthcare systems in developing nations.
Speaking at the 2026 United Kingdom Global Health Summit on Monday, the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, warned that a “business as usual” approach to the migration of medical professionals is no longer sustainable.
Addressing the 10-Million Worker Shortfall
Addressing a high-level audience at the Royal College of Physicians under the theme “Shaping Tomorrow’s Health, Together,” Dr. Salako pointed to alarming World Health Organization (WHO) projections. Current data suggests a global shortfall of 10 million health workers by 2030, with the most devastating gaps localized in low- and middle-income countries.
Dr. Salako argued that while movement is inevitable, destination countries must move beyond simple recruitment and toward investing in the source countries’ health infrastructure. He advocated for the full implementation of the WHO Global Code of Practice, calling for partnerships that include joint training programs, technology transfer, and direct investment in medical institutions.
Nigeria’s System Reset and Diaspora Integration
The Minister detailed Nigeria’s internal efforts to combat these challenges through the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII). This System Reset aims to unify reforms under a single national strategy defined by “One Plan, One Budget, and One Conversation.”
“The Federal Government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), is facilitating coordinated missions involving Nigerian professionals from the UK, US, Canada, and beyond,” Dr. Salako stated. “This is about skills transfer and institutional capacity building to ensure our system benefits from the expertise of our citizens abroad.”
Health Security as Global Self-Interest
In a blunt assessment of global health security, the Minister reminded the summit that the strength of the world’s health defense is only as strong as its weakest link. He noted that economic instability and climate-related health threats have made international solidarity a necessity rather than an option.
“The next pandemic or global health emergency will not respect borders,” Dr. Salako said during his keynote address. “Investing in resilient health systems across Africa is therefore not charity, but enlightened global self-interest.”
The Minister concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage, signaling that the nation will continue to lead policy conversations on building equitable health systems that can withstand the pressures of the mid-21st century.
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