The Guild of Medical Directors (GMD) has raised concerns about the escalating financial strain on Nigeria’s private healthcare sector, revealing that more than half of private hospitals have shut down, with the remainder struggling to stay open.
In an interview, GMD President Dr. Raymond Kuti explained that many hospitals are facing soaring costs for essential resources like electricity and medical supplies, leaving them on the brink of closure. “On average, three out of every six private hospitals are shutting down each month in Nigeria, largely due to the tough economic climate,” Dr. Kuti reported, noting that operational expenses—particularly for energy and imported medical supplies—have increased by up to 500%, hitting Band A hospitals the hardest.
Dr. Kuti, who also serves as Chief Medical Director at Prisms Health Care Limited, told Punch that a decrease in patient visits and the “japa” phenomenon—where young healthcare workers leave Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad—have compounded the crisis. This has led to severe staffing shortages, with many patients postponing treatment or resorting to self-medication or traditional remedies due to financial constraints.
Dr. Kuti called for immediate government intervention to support private hospitals. “It’s crucial for the government to recognize these challenges and provide aid to ensure that private hospitals can remain operational and continue serving the public,” he urged, emphasizing the vital role these facilities play in Nigeria’s healthcare system.