Japa: FG Targets 20,000 Annual Medical Admissions, Unveils Six Simulation Centres

The Federal Government has set a target of increasing annual admission into Nigerian medical schools to about 20,000 within the next three years as part of efforts to expand the healthcare workforce and respond to medical migration.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the target while receiving the report of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Medical Simulation Committee.

Alausa said annual medical admissions had increased from about 5,000 when President Bola Tinubu assumed office to almost 12,000 currently. He said the objective was to raise the figure to about 20,000 annually within three years.

The minister also announced plans to establish world-class medical simulation centres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The centres will provide practical training for students studying medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy and other allied health disciplines. They will help students develop clinical skills in controlled environments before treating patients.

Alausa said the increase in student numbers made investment in practical training infrastructure necessary. He noted that admissions into pharmacy and dental programmes had also increased.

The government’s plan comes amid persistent concerns over the migration of Nigerian doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities abroad, a trend popularly known as “Japa.”

The departure of trained professionals has raised concerns about staffing shortages in hospitals and the capacity of Nigeria’s health system to provide adequate care.

By increasing domestic training capacity, the government hopes to produce more healthcare professionals while improving medical education and practical experience.

The six simulation centres are expected to support rising enrolment and reduce pressure on existing teaching facilities. The initiative will strengthen hands-on training and improve access to modern educational resources.

Alausa said the programme was part of broader efforts to strengthen tertiary education and develop human resources for Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

He commended the medical simulation committee for developing plans for the proposed facilities.

The government’s strategy combines increased medical school capacity with investment in practical training. Better remuneration and working conditions will remain important to retaining skilled workers.

The move also aims to improve training standards and prepare graduates for modern healthcare.