Title: Medical Tourism: Economic Drain or Healthcare Gain? A Case Study of Nigeria's Healthcare Crisis and Leadership Accountability

Abstract:

Medical tourism, while offering patients access to advanced healthcare abroad, has become a significant economic and developmental challenge for Nigeria. This study critically examines the paradox of medical tourism as both a perceived healthcare solution and a contributor to national economic drain. Drawing upon data from Nigeria’s healthcare expenditure, patient outflows, and government policy reports, the paper highlights how inadequate local healthcare infrastructure and poor leadership accountability have fueled the exodus of patients seeking treatment overseas. The analysis reveals that billions of naira are lost annually, funds that could have strengthened domestic healthcare capacity. Furthermore, the study discusses how leadership inefficiency, corruption, and the lack of investment in human capital perpetuate Nigeria’s dependence on foreign medical systems. The paper concludes by proposing a leadership-driven framework aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s healthcare sector through transparency, strategic investment, and policy reforms that prioritize local treatment options. By transforming medical tourism from an economic drain into a healthcare gain, Nigeria can reposition itself toward sustainable healthcare development and national resilience.

Biography:

Mr. Haruna Abdullahi Elbinawi is a public health researcher and healthcare policy analyst from Nigeria, with a strong interest in health systems management, leadership accountability, and healthcare financing in developing countries. His work focuses on the intersections of governance, healthcare access, and the socio-economic implications of medical tourism in Africa. Mr. Elbinawi has been involved in various health advocacy and research initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system and promoting evidence-based policy reforms. His academic and professional contributions reflect his commitment to fostering sustainable healthcare practices that benefit local communities while reducing the economic outflow associated with medical travel.