“Patriotism Over Profit: Senate President Akpabio Urges Nigerians to Prioritize Love for Country”

Babatunji Wusu –

• Akpabio stresses the need for skilled Nigerians to remain in the country.
• He links mass immigration to poor working conditions and urges national loyalty over financial gain.
• The migration crisis is particularly affecting Nigeria’s health sector.

On Tuesday, Senate President Akpabio addressed the chamber, emphasizing the detrimental impact of skilled Nigerians leaving the country. He expressed concern over the loss of expertise, stating, “The country is losing its expertise. If these individuals acquired skills and returned to Nigeria, it would significantly benefit us.” His remarks were made in the context of a motion aimed at addressing the mass immigration of Nigerians.

Akpabio attributed part of this migration to inadequate working conditions, urging citizens to prioritize their love for the nation over financial incentives. “This is why many of us choose to remain here,” he noted.

He highlighted the pressing issue of brain drain, particularly in the health sector, declaring, “The brain drain is a significant problem, not only in education but especially in healthcare—it is having a profound impact on us.”