In a bold step to tackle the growing trend of medical tourism, the Nigerian Senate, alongside the Bank of Industry (BoI) and Nisa International Medical Centre (NIMC), voiced concerns over the rising numbers of Nigerians seeking healthcare abroad. The officials highlighted the urgent need for Nigerians living abroad to return and invest in the country’s healthcare sector.
The Senate and BoI’s remarks were made during the unveiling of a state-of-the-art 12-floor, 150-bed medical facility—Nisa International Medical Centre (NIMC)—which is set to revolutionise healthcare delivery in the country. Located in the upscale Maitama District, this modern facility is managed by Nisa Medical Group with a vision to provide world-class healthcare services, reduce the medical tourism outflow, and attract international patients.
A New Dawn for Nigerian Healthcare
Dr. Musa Shaibu, the Group Managing Director of Nisa Medical Group, expressed confidence that the new centre would play a pivotal role in reshaping the medical landscape in Nigeria and across Africa.
“We aim to advance medical education, embrace innovation, and establish strong patient relationships. NIMC will offer tertiary and referral services, provide safe and high-quality treatments, and reduce medical tourism,” Dr. Shaibu said during a tour with the Senate Committee on Industry.
Focusing on Accessibility and Specialised Care
The centre is designed with cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies, placing a strong emphasis on maternal health, child care, fertility, and chronic diseases. Dr. Shaibu underscored that the project would not just be about modern infrastructure but about making healthcare accessible to every Nigerian.
“Many Nigerians are unable to access specialist care. With the National Health Insurance Act, we will ensure that even the underserved can access quality care,” he added.
A Call to Nigerian Doctors Abroad
Senator Francis Fadahunsi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Industry, urged Nigerian doctors working abroad to follow the example of Dr. Ibrahim Wada, CEO of Nisa Medical Group, by investing in the local healthcare system rather than only making temporary visits.
“Most of our doctors abroad come back temporarily, perform surgeries, collect their fees in dollars, and leave. It’s time for them to return and contribute meaningfully by establishing facilities like this one,” Senator Fadahunsi said.
Tackling Brain Drain and Medical Tourism
Senator Adamu Aliero, a former governor of Kebbi State, weighed in on the issue, stating that poor facilities and lack of equipment in Nigeria were major drivers of brain drain. However, he expressed hope that the NIMC project could be a turning point.
“What is causing brain drain is the lack of equipment and facilities. If we are able to get such facilities in Nigeria, Nigerians will stop travelling abroad for medical treatment, and medical personnel working in Europe, the Middle East, and America will be attracted to come home,” he said.
The Broader Impact
With the unveiling of the NIMC, there is a growing sense that Nigeria could eventually become a medical hub, attracting international patients while stemming the tide of medical tourism. The facility is expected to not only address the healthcare needs of Nigerians but also provide a boost to the local economy by creating jobs and fostering the growth of the health sector.
