A Bill sponsored by Rep Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson to prevent Nigerian-trained medical or dental practitioners from being granted full licenses until they have worked for a minimum of five years in the country has passed second reading stage in the House of Representatives in an effort to halt the increasing number of medical doctors leaving Nigeria for greener pastures.
The Bill is titled, “A Bill for an Act to amend the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act, Cap M379, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to mandate any Nigerian-trained medical and dental practitioner to practice in Nigeria for a minimum of five years before being granted a full license by the Council in order to make quality health services available to Nigeria; and for related matters (HB.2130)”.
Rep. Uzoma Nkem-Abonta, however, opposed the Bill, claiming that it amounted to enslavement, while the Bill’s sponsor told the House that it was only fair for medical practitioners who received taxpayer subsidies for their training to give back to society by working for a minimum number of years in Nigeria before exporting their skills abroad.
During the plenary presided over by the speaker, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, majority voice votes passed the Bill for second reading.
