The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has called on the federal and state governments to urgently improve the welfare of healthcare workers to curb the growing migration of skilled professionals abroad.
In a statement issued to commemorate the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration, the Society warned that the increasing wave of emigration, popularly known as the “japa syndrome,” is weakening Nigeria’s health system and threatening cancer care delivery across the country.
The statement, signed by the Director of Publicity of the Society, Bashir Mohammed Rancass, particularly celebrated healthcare professionals involved in cancer prevention, treatment and control, commending their dedication despite prevailing challenges within the sector.
According to the Society, health workers remain critical to improving outcomes for cancer patients and survivors nationwide, reports Saturday Independent.
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Society, Abidemi Omonisi, described healthcare workers as “the backbone of Nigeria’s health system and indispensable partners in the fight against cancer.”
He applauded their resilience and sacrifices in delivering quality healthcare services under difficult conditions.
The Society, however, expressed concern over factors driving the migration of healthcare professionals, including poor welfare packages, inadequate remuneration, insecurity, limited opportunities for career advancement and poor working environments.
It urged governments at all levels to prioritise the welfare of health workers through improved salaries and allowances, better working conditions, access to modern medical equipment and continuous professional development opportunities.
“Retaining our skilled workforce is critical to achieving sustainable healthcare delivery and improving cancer control outcomes in Nigeria,” the statement noted.
The Society reaffirmed its commitment to advocating policies aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system and supporting healthcare professionals across the country.
It also congratulated Nigerian workers on the occasion of Workers’ Day, describing their contributions to national development as invaluable and immeasurable.
