A personal tragedy has triggered Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State’s call for urgent action against the crippling brain drain affecting Nigeria’s health sector.
While speaking at a memorial service for his late wife’s sister, Victoria Ali, recently, Diri expressed sadness over her loss and attributed it in part to what he perceived as “negligence” by medical personnel.
A statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, quoted him as saying someone could die of appendicitis in this age and time.
He said: “The death of Mrs Ali is a reminder that the brain drain syndrome in our health sector is a serious challenge that is negatively affecting our country. Doctors usually take the oath to save lives and I appeal to them to show more commitment to their duty.
“Let me advise our medical professionals. Some deaths are avoidable and this is one. At this age and time, people should not die of appendicitis.
“It is for this reason we have resuscitated the diagnostic centre. The biggest problem we have is diagnosis. I want Bayelsa to be a medical tourism hub. So we must get our acts right. As a government, we are very concerned and we must sit up.”
Diri’s stark message goes beyond his grief, becoming a touching criticism of the wider trend of healthcare professionals leaving for greener pastures abroad.
