The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to establish a standalone University of Medicine and Health Sciences as part of strategic efforts to address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals and position the state as a leading medical hub in Africa.
Speaking during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing of the Lagos State Ministry of Health held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, the Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, disclosed that the proposed institution would help strengthen the training of medical personnel and improve healthcare delivery across the state.
Abayomi revealed that Lagos currently requires about 40,000 doctors to effectively cater to its rapidly growing population but presently has only about 7,000 medical practitioners, creating a deficit of nearly 30,000 doctors.
According to him, the planned specialised university is part of broader reforms aimed at expanding medical education, improving healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of skilled health workers in the state.
The commissioner noted that the initiative aligns with the state government’s vision of transforming Lagos into a centre of excellence for healthcare services, medical research, and innovation on the African continent.
He added that the government remains committed to investing in the health sector despite increasing pressure on medical facilities caused by population growth and migration into the state.
Health experts have repeatedly warned about the growing burden on healthcare systems in Lagos, stressing the need for increased manpower, better facilities, and improved funding to meet rising healthcare demands.
The proposed university is expected to complement existing medical training institutions in the state while creating more opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government to improve healthcare access, reduce brain drain in the medical sector, and strengthen emergency and primary healthcare services across the state.