Nigeria’s medical tourism spending climbed to $549.29 million in the first nine months of 2025, triggering renewed criticism of the Federal Government over weak healthcare infrastructure and rising foreign exchange pressure.
Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) show that Nigerians spent $151.53m in Q1, $189.41m in Q2, and $208.35m in Q3 2025 on health-related travel abroad.
This represents a 17.96% increase from $465.67m recorded during the same period in 2024.
The surge highlights continued dependence on overseas treatment for advanced medical care, including cardiovascular procedures, cancer treatment, and other specialised services.
Forex Pressure and Healthcare Infrastructure Gaps
Medical tourism remains a major drain on Nigeria’s foreign reserves. The CBN tracks the foreign exchange released for medical travel allowances, though it does not monitor how the funds are spent.
Health experts attribute the spike to declining confidence in local hospitals, prolonged industrial actions, equipment shortages, and limited access to specialised medicines.
Shortages of cardiovascular drugs, anti-cancer medicines, insulin, antibiotics, and laboratory reagents have worsened the crisis.
Despite government assurances of healthcare reforms, analysts say the numbers indicate minimal progress in reversing outbound medical travel.
Funding Constraints and Equipment Shortfalls
Industry stakeholders argue that Nigeria has skilled medical professionals but lacks adequate equipment and modern facilities.
Many sophisticated procedures require advanced diagnostic tools and life-support systems that are either unavailable or poorly maintained in public hospitals.
Funding gaps also remain a challenge, with concerns raised over capital releases and budget implementation in the health sector.
Economic Impact of Rising Medical Tourism
Experts warn that increasing medical tourism could further weaken the naira and strain Nigeria’s external reserves.
As more affluent Nigerians seek treatment abroad, the country continues to lose significant foreign exchange that could otherwise strengthen domestic healthcare investment.
Without urgent reforms, improved hospital infrastructure, and better funding transparency, Nigeria’s medical tourism bill may continue to rise in 2026 and beyond.
