TETFund Executive Secretary Sonny Echono says Nigeria can cut medical tourism by expanding medical training, improving facilities, and strengthening tertiary institutions

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced plans to reduce medical tourism by enhancing healthcare training and facilities across tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

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Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, TETFund Executive Secretary Sonny Echono noted that improving the training of healthcare professionals and expanding the capacity of teaching hospitals are key strategies to keep Nigerians from seeking treatment abroad.

“Only about a week ago, I had extensive conversations with the Minister of Education. One of the directives from Mr. President was to see how we can reverse medical tourism in the country,” Echono said.

He explained that TETFund is extending support beyond university faculties of medicine to teaching hospitals, ensuring students have accommodation during clinical training and access to modern medical equipment.

Echono also stressed the need to strengthen the entire healthcare workforce, not just doctors.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, commended TETFund’s interventions in tertiary education and aviation-related training, highlighting the impact on the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Aneke requested support for the Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine to train personnel for both military and civilian needs.

Medical tourism remains a challenge in Nigeria, driven by gaps in healthcare infrastructure, limited specialised equipment, and a persistent brain drain of medical professionals.

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TETFund’s ongoing initiatives aim to strengthen local healthcare systems, improve clinical training, and attract skilled personnel, ultimately reducing reliance on treatment abroad.