Nigeria: Concerns Mount as Lagos University Teaching Hospital Closes Five Wards Due to Shortage of Doctors
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
The House of Representatives Committee on Health expressed concern about the decline in the country’s health workforce, particularly due to the relocation of doctors and nurses from Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) to various parts of the world. This has led to the closure of five wards with 150 beds.
Chairman Dr. Amos Magaji highlighted the urgency of addressing the trend of Nigerians seeking medical treatment abroad and emphasized the need to strengthen the healthcare sector.
During an oversight visit to LUTH, Magaji outlined plans to address the challenges, emphasizing the importance of building infrastructure and making the sector attractive to retain skilled workers. He acknowledged the complex nature of the issue and committed to both immediate and long-term solutions, involving collaboration with the Federal Government and the teaching hospital.
LUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Wasiu Adeyemo, shared that the cancer center has treated over 9,600 patients since 2019, attracting international visitors. He urged Nigerians to utilize the facility, expressing gratitude for the government and the House of Representatives’ support in providing quality healthcare.
