As the world marks the 2025 International Nurses Day, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that 42 per cent of nurses in Africa report an intention to emigrate.
In a message to commemorate the day, the Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Chikwe Ihekweazu, warns that this “alarming trend” could further drain the continent’s already fragile health systems.
Mr Ihekweazu said this year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Health Systems and Economies,” reinforces the need for better support and investment in the nursing profession.
“Nurses are the backbone of our health systems. Yet nearly half of them are looking to leave, drawn by better pay, safer environments, and clear career pathways in wealthier nations. This has far-reaching implications for access to care and health equity,” he said.
The warning comes as Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, continues to struggle with its health workforce crisis. Thousands of Nigerian nurses and other health workers have migrated abroad for better working conditions.
In 2024, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) revealed that over 15,000 Nigerian nurses obtained verification to work abroad between 2021 and 2023
Reports say hospitals across the country are grappling with staff shortages, leading to longer wait times and reduced quality of care for patients.
Nursing workforce
Mr Ihekweazu cited the latest State of the World’s Nursing Report 2025, which revealed that the global nursing workforce has grown to 29.8 million, up from about 28 million in 2018.
The report revealed that nearly 80 per cent of nurses serve only 49 per cent of the world’s population.
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