Nigeria’s foreign exchange outflow for medical travel surged sharply in 2025. Data shows Nigerians spent $549.29m within nine months. This represents a 17.96 percent increase from $465.67m in 2024.
Consequently, analysts criticised the Federal Government over rising medical tourism. They argued that repeated reform promises have produced minimal results. Experts insisted local healthcare infrastructure remains severely underfunded. The foreign exchange allowance comes through the Central Bank of Nigeria.
However, the bank tracks disbursement without monitoring actual spending abroad. Therefore, policymakers lack deeper insights into treatment categories. Quarterly figures reveal consistent growth throughout 2025. Nigerians spent $151.53m in Q1 alone.
Spending rose to $189.41m in Q2. By Q3, it climbed further to $208.35m.In comparison, 2024 recorded lower quarterly expenditures. The surge highlights sustained demand for specialised foreign treatment. Many patients seek cardiovascular procedures and advanced cancer therapies overseas.
Declining trust in domestic services fuels this persistent outflow. A recent case involving Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie intensified public debate. She alleged medical negligence after her son’s death in Lagos. The incident reignited scrutiny of hospital standards nationwide. In August 2023, Muhammad Pate pledged healthcare reforms. He promised to reduce outward medical travel significantly.
Later, he estimated annual losses at $2bn. Yet, recent figures suggest limited measurable progress. Former Pharmaceutical Society President Olumide Akintayo blamed systemic inefficiencies. He cited prolonged strikes and disrupted drug supply chains. Additionally, he referenced corruption concerns flagged by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
Meanwhile, Nigerian Medical Association leaders emphasised infrastructure gaps. They noted equipment shortages hinder advanced treatments locally. Ultimately, rising medical tourism strains foreign reserves and weakens the naira.
