According to a Punch article, Nigeria spent around ₦680 billion ($550 million) on medical tourism by the end of the third quarter of 2025. This raises several important economic and social concerns.
Firstly, billions of dollars leave our economy and flow into foreign hospitals, putting additional pressure on the naira. Secondly, domestic employment opportunities for healthcare professionals and supporting industries are lost because healthcare spending occurs outside Nigeria. Thirdly, dependence on foreign healthcare reduces incentives to invest in local medical research, innovation, and specialist training. Consequently, some illnesses are often perceived as treatable only abroad. Lastly, those who cannot afford medical tourism are frequently left without access to life-saving care.
While many past governments paid limited attention to healthcare investment, some administrations implemented commendable initiatives. One notable example was the Mother and Child Initiative introduced by former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko. The programme attracted pregnant women from across southwestern Nigeria and contributed significantly to reducing maternal mortality in the state by making delivery services affordable for the masses. Unfortunately, the initiative faded following a change in government.
Investing in healthcare is not merely social spending; it is an investment in human capital. A healthier population is more productive, records fewer work absences, attracts investment, and supports long-term economic growth. Strengthening our healthcare system would reduce capital flight through medical tourism, create skilled jobs, encourage research and innovation, and improve national competitiveness.
FINAL THOUGHT
Quality healthcare is a universal human right, not a privilege. Nigerian and African leaders must recognise that investing in healthcare is ultimately an investment in economic development and national prosperity.
MACRO DIALOGUE
If Nigeria can spend billions on infrastructure and security, why can’t we invest enough to build a healthcare system that keeps our people alive, retains medical talent, and reduces the billions lost annually to medical tourism?
What are your thoughts?
Akinsulere’s Economic Notes
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