Jul 27, 2026

Israel Urges Nigerian Doctors for Capacity Training Abroad

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria Michael Freeman has called for more Nigerian doctors to train in Israel, saying the move would strengthen local healthcare capacity and reduce the country’s dependence on medical travel abroad.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on ARISE News’ Primetime programme on Monday, Freeman described Israel as “a great destination for health tourism” that already attracts many Nigerians seeking treatment.

Yet he made clear that the long-term goal should be the opposite of continued patient outflow.

“My dream is that no Nigerian comes to Israel because they don’t need to, and all of the top hospitals are based in Nigeria,” he said.

The ambassador framed the invitation as part of a broader push to deepen Israel-Nigeria cooperation beyond traditional diplomacy.

He argued that sending Nigerian physicians for specialized training in Israeli institutions would transfer skills, technology, and best practices that could transform hospitals and medical education back home.

Freeman’s remarks come amid existing bilateral engagements in healthcare, agriculture, technology, and innovation.

Israeli officials have previously signalled willingness to expand medical collaboration, including capacity-building programmes and equipment support for Nigerian health facilities.

Health tourism has long been a reality for many Nigerian families who can afford treatment overseas when specialized care is unavailable or delayed at home.

By inviting more doctors rather than only patients, Freeman positioned Israel as a partner in solving the root problem rather than merely serving as a destination for those who can pay.

The ambassador’s comments highlight a pragmatic strand of Israel-Nigeria relations: practical knowledge transfer in critical sectors.

Whether the call translates into structured exchange programs, scholarships, or hospital partnerships will depend on follow-up by both governments and medical institutions.

For now, Freeman’s message is straightforward. Israel is ready to open its doors to Nigerian doctors. The hope is that one day those same doctors will no longer need to send their patients abroad.