Mimiko emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating that if the trend continues, only native doctors will be available to provide healthcare in the next five to ten years.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has previously highlighted the alarming rate at which medical professionals, particularly doctors, are leaving the country in search of better remuneration and working conditions abroad. The NMA reported that poor salaries and an unfavorable working environment have compelled many doctors and health workers to seek opportunities outside Nigeria.
Speaking on the matter, Mimiko underscored the urgent need for the Nigerian government to find a lasting solution to the mass exodus of medical personnel. He expressed concern over the fact that doctors and healthcare workers trained at a subsidized rate in Nigeria often choose to abandon the country for more developed nations.
Mimiko emphasised that if the brain drain continues unabated, Nigeria may face a situation where native doctors become the only option for healthcare. He called on the government to address the issue as an emergency and take immediate steps to disincentivize the emigration of medical professionals.
Highlighting the potential of Nigeria's talent pool, Mimiko noted that the country has a young population ready to serve if the government prioritizes their welfare. He stressed that Nigeria has the capacity to train a significant number of medical students, but other countries that benefit from this training should also contribute to expanding Nigeria's capacity to educate its own citizens.
Mimiko urged the government to take diplomatic action and prevent the loss of the country's best human resources. He emphasised that with the necessary measures in place, Nigeria could achieve a win-win situation for the nation.
The former governor's remarks were made during the induction ceremony of medical students at the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) in Ondo. Mimiko, himself a medical doctor, called on the government to address the brain drain crisis urgently and ensure the retention of Nigeria's healthcare professionals.