Nigerian Doctors in Diaspora Push for Visa Reforms

Some United States-based Nigerian doctors have resolved to strengthen American healthcare despite the country facing a critical shortage of doctors, especially in rural and underserved communities.

To contribute their quota, the doctors recently met with bipartisan members of Congress to advocate for common-sense visa reforms that would allow qualified doctors to serve where they are needed most.

The doctors, under the aegis of the Nigerian Physician Advocacy Group, which is the national coalition of Nigerian-American physicians, health advocates, and community leaders made the demand at a two-day Advocacy and Lobby Day on Capitol Hill.

The delegation was received by Congressman Jonathan Jackson, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, Congressman James Baird, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Congressman Dan Crenshaw, and Congressman Chris Smith, highlighting the broad, cross-party support for solutions that strengthen America’s healthcare system.

Offering practical solutions to the lawmakers, the doctors maintained they are committed to ensuring the voices of Nigerian-American doctors are heard in policy conversations that directly impact patient care.

The ANPA founded by Dr. Ihenacho Emeruwa was at the centre of efforts to empower Nigerian doctors in the US to serve with excellence.

Addressing the lawmakers, Dr. Susan Edionwe, who led the NPAG delegation, said Nigerian doctors could significantly contribute to improving US healthcare delivery if given the pride of place.

“Doctors from Nigeria are not just part of the system, they are the backbone of it. They serve in the toughest areas, including rural towns, inner cities, and underserved counties. And they do so with excellence, compassion, and commitment,” said Edionwe.

Decrying the recent developments in immigration policy, Edionwe said unfavourable policies could significantly affect the contributions of Nigerian doctors in the US.

The bill, they said, would allow more J-1 visa holders to remain in the US after residency if they serve in federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas.

“Fixing the J-1 visa process and passing H.R. 1201 is essential. Communities across America depend on doctors who are ready, willing, and able to serve—Nigerian doctors are already doing the work. Let’s not close the door on them,” said Edionwe.

She noted that more than 30 Nigerian medical graduates are currently seeking training and research opportunities in the US.

According to her, these are not just physicians, they are a strategic asset in both global health and America’s local care delivery systems.

“Let us be clear. This isn’t about handouts. Nigerian doctors are here to help America solve a real problem—access to quality care. All we’re asking for is the opportunity to do that,” she said.

Beyond domestic policy, NPAG also raised alarm over the vacuum left by the reduction of USAID-supported medical programs in Nigeria, including delays in distributing critical medications.

With PEPFAR alone having saved over 1.6 million lives in Nigeria, the doctors underscored the urgency of continuing life-saving interventions.