BEVERLY HILLS, June 07, (THEWILL) – A Nigerian doctor has accused President Muhammadu Buhari of reneging on a promise to end medical tourism by seeking treatment in the UK.
Buhari flew to London on Monday to be treated for an ear infection maintaining that he was fit.
However, Dr Osahon Enabulele, Vice President of the Commonwealth Medical Association, said it was a national shame that the President went to the UK for treatment when Nigeria had more than 250 ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists, as well as a National Ear Centre.
“Nigerians spent $1bn (£690m) on foreign medical trips in 2013, most of which was unnecessary,” he said.
“Nigerian politicians were mostly treated by Nigerian doctors in the UK.
“Buhari should lead by example by using Nigerian doctors and facilities, and ensure government officials do not go abroad on frivolous medical trips.
“The UK has more than 3,000 Nigerian-trained doctors, and the US more than 5,000,” he said, accusing the government of failing to address the brain drain by improving working conditions and health centres.
Story by David Oputah
