Brain Drain: Only 58,000 Doctors Renewed Licenses – MDCN Registrar

Dr. Fatima Kyari, the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has revealed that in 2023, only 58,000 doctors renewed their annual practicing licenses, which is a stark reflection of the brain drain plaguing the nation’s health sector.

Speaking during the induction ceremony of 20 new doctors at Edo State University, Uzairue, on Friday, Dr. Kyari said that over 61 years since its establishment, the council has officially accredited 130,000 medical practitioners to serve in Nigeria, adding that the council is mandated to regulate the practice of medicine, dental, and alternative medicine in Nigeria.

“The council has so far registered 130,000 medical doctors to practice in Nigeria since its inception 61 years ago and the council is mandated to regulate the practice of medicine, dental, and alternative medicine in Nigeria.

“But only 58,000 doctors have renewed their annual practicing license in the year 2023 following the increase in migration of doctors outside the country,” she said.

Represented by Deputy Registrar Dr. Victor Kolawole, Dr. Kyari highlighted the importance of the new inductees in boosting the healthcare workforce, while admonishing them to adhere to professional ethics, as she warned that the council has the authority to regulate the activities of the practitioners as well as punish offenders.

Echoing Dr. Kyari’s sentiments, Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, praised the transformation of Auchi Central Hospital into a teaching hospital, which has improved medical training facilities and healthcare standards in Edo North and surrounding areas.

He urged the new doctors to uphold professional standards and expressed confidence in their ability to bring honor to the university and the MDCN.

Prof. Aluyor also extended gratitude to Governor Godwin Obaseki for his consistent support of the university’s endeavours.

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