Enugu state governor, Mbah begs nurses not to japa

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has requested that nursing students stay in the state after graduation to help reduce brain drain in the healthcare system.

He made this statement during the 2024/2025 inaugural matriculation ceremony at the Nursing College in Enugu on April 10.

Mbah pointed out the large investment the state is making in training nursing and midwifery students and urged them to contribute to the state after they finish their studies.

Represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government, he noted that the trend of leaving the country, referred to as “japa syndrome,” is contrary to the state’s policy, which has been heavily funding their education.

“We don’t train you and after spending all that money in infrastructure and the first opportunity you get you leave our healthcare facilities.

“One thing we are very particular is how we improve the service conditions so that when you go through the effort of getting your certificate, you don’t leave our state.

“That is why we are training beyond just academics so that you see that this is service and if any of you can go back to our budget in 2024 and 2025, the highest investment is in education and health,” Mbah said.