The Oyo State government, under the leadership of Governor Makinde, has implemented impactful policies that have significantly improved the health sector, mitigating the effects of the “Japa syndrome” or brain drain. These policies have led to a notable enhancement in the quality of life for residents, evidenced by reduced maternal, infant, and under-five mortality rates. Furthermore, the state government has invested in upgrading hundreds of health facilities and infrastructure, ensuring better access to quality healthcare services across the state. The commitment to infrastructure development is complemented by a focus on human resources, with the recruitment of thousands of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other vital personnel. This strategic approach addresses the shortage of medical professionals and strengthens the healthcare system’s capacity to deliver effective services.
One of the key achievements of the Oyo State government is the revitalization of Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs). Recognizing the importance of primary healthcare as the foundation of a robust healthcare system, the state has renovated and equipped 212 PHCs, with an additional 87 currently undergoing various stages of completion. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services closer to the communities, reducing the burden on secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. Furthermore, out of the 212 renovated PHCs, 106 are being upgraded to Level 2 or Level 3 health facilities, enabling them to provide Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) services. This upgrade includes the installation of essential equipment such as solar inverters for uninterrupted power supply, incinerators for safe waste disposal, computer tablets for electronic medical records, and medical equipment like nebulizers, pulse oximeters, and oxygen cylinders.
Addressing the challenge of medical brain drain, the Oyo State government has implemented measures to retain and attract healthcare professionals. Despite the impact of the Japa syndrome, which has seen some medical professionals leave the country for better opportunities abroad, the state government has embarked on a massive recruitment drive. This has resulted in the recruitment of 332 healthcare workers at secondary health facilities and an increase in internship quotas, providing opportunities for young medical professionals to gain experience and contribute to the state’s healthcare system. Furthermore, the state government prioritized the recruitment of medical officers for primary healthcare centers, ensuring that each local government has at least one medical officer. This has strengthened primary healthcare services and improved access to medical care in rural and underserved areas.
While acknowledging the impact of the Japa syndrome and retirements, which reduced the number of doctors from approximately 350 to 260 in state-owned facilities, the commissioner emphasized that the state government is actively working to close the gap. The recent recruitment of 33 new medical officers, along with the existing PHC coordinators who are also doctors, demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the shortage of medical professionals. Additionally, the commissioner highlighted the contribution of doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, which has close to 100 doctors, resident doctors, and medical students supporting the hospital’s operations. This collaborative approach strengthens the overall healthcare workforce in the state.
Beyond infrastructure development and human resource management, the Oyo State government is also focusing on data-driven policy development. Ongoing data analysis on cardiovascular risk factors will inform policy decisions aimed at preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the state has achieved Pre-Transmission Assessment Survey (Pre-TAS) success and initiated TAS for filariasis-free Local Government Areas, demonstrating a commitment to eliminating neglected tropical diseases. The resuscitation of oxygen plants ensures a reliable supply of medical oxygen, crucial for the treatment of various medical conditions. These initiatives highlight the state’s comprehensive approach to healthcare, addressing both immediate needs and long-term health challenges.
Looking ahead, the Oyo State government has ambitious plans for the future of the health sector. One of the key priorities is the renovation of secondary health facilities, which will be supported by a €55 million grant from the French government. This investment will further enhance the quality of secondary healthcare services and strengthen the referral system between primary, secondary, and tertiary care facilities. The government also plans to expand digital health infrastructure and electronic health records, improving efficiency and facilitating data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, the state is committed to increasing access and equity in healthcare service delivery, ensuring that quality healthcare services are available to all residents regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. Finally, the government will continue to invest in workforce recruitment and training initiatives, addressing the ongoing challenge of medical brain drain and ensuring a sustainable supply of skilled healthcare professionals. These forward-looking initiatives demonstrate the Oyo State government’s commitment to building a robust and resilient healthcare system that meets the needs of its population.
