Nigeria Launches Initiative to Leverage Diaspora Health Expertise

On July 25, 2023, the Nigerian government launched the Nigerian Diaspora Advance Health Programme (NIDAH-P) in Abuja, aimed at harnessing the expertise of Nigerian health professionals abroad to improve healthcare delivery in the country. Coordinated by Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof.

Ali Pate, the initiative seeks to rally support from Nigerian professionals in the diaspora to strengthen healthcare services. NIDAH-P will involve 19 federal tertiary health institutions across Nigeria and will be implemented in three phases: foundation setup, pilot implementation, and evaluation.

The program addresses the need for coordinated interventions to maximize the contributions of health professionals abroad, who have previously operated with little coordination. The initiative also includes the Diaspora Health Impact Initiative, which will commence in 2026, focusing on connecting diaspora health professionals with local institutions for clinical placements and mentorship.

The program aims to build sustainable partnerships and enhance the skills of local health workers.