,,,,,,Calls for engagement of diaspora medical doctors to check brain drain.
By Correspondent in Ilorin.
Dr. Tunde Ayeye, Group Managing Director of International Facilities Services (IFS), has called for the adoption of innovative financing models to address Nigeria’s persistent health sector challenges.
Speaking at the 9th Kola Olafimihan College of Health Sciences Endowed Lecture at the University of Ilorin, kwara state,on Thursday ,Ayeye emphasized the importance of leveraging sustainable financial mechanisms, including Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), to improve healthcare funding.
Themed “Improving Access to Quality Healthcare Delivery in a Depressed Economy,” the event focused on overcoming economic hurdles to ensure better healthcare access for Nigerians.
Ayeye proposed viewing healthcare as an economic driver rather than a standalone service.
“Healthcare can evolve into a catalyst for economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investment, and fostering industry development,” he stated.
He stressed the role of public-private partnerships and called for their redefinition to maximize efficiency as well as advocated for engaging Nigeria’s medical diaspora to curb brain drain and encourage brain gain.
Prof. Suleiman Alabi, Provost of the College, reiterated the impact of the global economic downturn on Nigeria’s healthcare system.
He stressed the need for innovative solutions, including expanded health insurance coverage, citing programmes like Kwara-Care as a step in the right direction.
The event also celebrated the legacy of Dr. Kola Olafimihan, with his daughter, Mrs. Mobolaji Adeniyi, commending the University of Ilorin for honoring her father’s contributions to the medical field.
This lecture underscored the urgent need for strategic financing solutions to transform healthcare delivery in Nigeria, with a focus on sustainable and inclusive economic models.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
