The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an ambitious plan to build 10,000 housing units for healthcare workers as part of the Renewed Hope Medic City initiative.
This scheme aims to tackle the “Japa syndrome,” a phenomenon describing the mass migration of medical professionals abroad in search of better opportunities.
The initiative focuses on providing affordable and quality housing to doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare personnel to address one of the root causes of the ongoing brain drain in the country’s healthcare sector.
Advertisement
The announcement was made during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, organized by the Renewed Hope Housing Initiative for Medical and Healthcare Workers, which brought together the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) and representatives of health professional unions.
Dr. Aliyu Oroji Wammako, Chairman of the initiative, emphasized the urgency of the project and its alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader Renewed Hope Housing Agenda.
He stated, “Over the years, we have witnessed an alarming exodus of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel seeking better opportunities abroad. This brain drain continues to weaken our healthcare system and deprive the nation of vital expertise needed to build a healthier and more resilient future.”
To make the housing units affordable, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) will offer them on a rent-to-own basis at a subsidized mortgage rate of 6% per annum, much lower than commercial rates.
Prince Akintoye Adeoye, President of REDAN, assured that the project would be transparent and sustainable.
He said, “We aim to build systems of delivery that are bankable, transparent, and sustainable. From planning to funding, and from delivery to occupancy, each step must reflect a shared sense of purpose and responsibility.”
Dr. Suleiman Abubakar Sadiq, National Coordinator, highlighted the importance of strict monitoring and a demand-driven allocation process.
