Governance Crisis and Migration of Health Workers from Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Nigeria: 2019-2023

Abstract

The migration of health workers from Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, has become a pressing concern, driven by persistent governance challenges. This study critically examines the governance crisis and its role in the exodus of skilled health professionals from LASUTH between 2019 and 2023. Guided by Institutional Theory, this research explores the role of inadequate governance, including poor remuneration, lack of job security, and substandard working conditions, in driving this migration trend. The study adopts a descriptive survey design, obtaining quantitative data from a web-based questionnaire administered to 300 medical staff of LASUTH. Findings reveal that governance deficiencies, particularly inadequate medical facilities, poor remuneration and unfair working conditions, have fostered unfavourable conditions, compelling health workers to seek opportunities abroad. This is further compounded by the noticeable shortage of staff, job dissatisfaction and decline in patient satisfaction at LASUTH. The study concludes that the governance crisis has fostered the migration of health workers from LASUTH. The study recommends healthcare governance reforms that facilitate competitive salaries for health workers and investment in medical facilities to curb workforce shortages and improve healthcare delivery in LASUTH.