The dynamics of migration have changed with the emergence of digital technologies, especially the social networking sites (SNSs) that give unhindered access to information and social capital. This reality is not unconnected with the current exodus of Nigerian healthcare professionals to Western nations, often referred to as the ‘Japa syndrome’. This chapter, considering the principles of neoliberalism, globalism, and state fragility, seeks to establish the role of social networking in the occupational migration of Nigerian health workers. Globalisation through social networking sites has made it easier for Nigerian health workers to explore job options elsewhere, and at the same time, occupational migration remains a hindrance to the attainment of sustainable healthcare in Nigeria. This chapter recommends that the root causes of occupational migration must be addressed, while standard training and practice environments must be prioritised. Coupled with a sustainable approach to the recruitment and migration process that is mutually beneficial to all concerned, this will address the impact of occupational migration in the Nigerian health sector while projecting the nation in a positive light as a source of attraction for health professionals across the globe.

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Digital Social Capital, Occupational Migration and the ‘Japa Syndrome’ in Nigeria: Impediments to Sustainability in the Health Sector

  • Tolu Olagunju

摘要

The dynamics of migration have changed with the emergence of digital technologies, especially the social networking sites (SNSs) that give unhindered access to information and social capital. This reality is not unconnected with the current exodus of Nigerian healthcare professionals to Western nations, often referred to as the ‘Japa syndrome’. This chapter, considering the principles of neoliberalism, globalism, and state fragility, seeks to establish the role of social networking in the occupational migration of Nigerian health workers. Globalisation through social networking sites has made it easier for Nigerian health workers to explore job options elsewhere, and at the same time, occupational migration remains a hindrance to the attainment of sustainable healthcare in Nigeria. This chapter recommends that the root causes of occupational migration must be addressed, while standard training and practice environments must be prioritised. Coupled with a sustainable approach to the recruitment and migration process that is mutually beneficial to all concerned, this will address the impact of occupational migration in the Nigerian health sector while projecting the nation in a positive light as a source of attraction for health professionals across the globe.