Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to place their love for the country above financial interests, expressing concern over the increasing trend of emigration, particularly among skilled professionals. Akpabio made this statement on Tuesday, October 8, during a Senate session addressing the growing issue of Nigerians leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
“The country is losing its expertise. If those who gained knowledge and skills abroad returned to Nigeria, it would have been more beneficial,” Akpabio remarked. He emphasized that Nigeria’s progress would be faster if professionals who trained overseas contributed to the nation’s development rather than seeking greener pastures elsewhere.
While acknowledging that poor working conditions are a major factor driving emigration, Akpabio stressed that love for the country should take precedence. “I believe people should prioritize their love for Nigeria over financial gains. That’s why many of us choose to stay,” he added.
The Senate President expressed concern over the negative impact of the "brain drain" on critical sectors, especially health and education. He noted that many Nigerian health professionals have left for better opportunities, particularly in countries like the United States. “From various reports, it is said that about 22,000 Nigerian health workers are excelling in the U.S. alone,” Akpabio shared.
In addition to the healthcare sector, Akpabio highlighted the severe staff shortages in the education sector, which he said have negatively affected the quality of education. "Many departments in schools are operating with less than 50 percent of the required staff, which impacts what our children are being taught. It’s like a computer—garbage in, garbage out,” he commented.
Akpabio assured that the National Assembly would continue to work on improving conditions for professionals, particularly teachers, to encourage them to remain in Nigeria and help build the nation's future.
No comments:
Post a Comment