PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS INFLUENCING MIGRATION DECISIONS AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN NIGERIA

The mass migration of healthcare professionals from Nigeria, commonly referred to as “japa syndrome,” has left a significant gap in the country’s healthcare system. While economic and social factors in migration decisions are well-documented, the psychological dimensions remain significantly underexplored. This study aimed to identify key psychological factors and theoretical foundations explaining migration decisions and determine how these factors drive migration in Nigeria. This qualitative study was structured around two research questions: What psychological factors influence migration decisions? and how these psychological factors drive migration decisions and intentions. The study reveals that Nigerian healthcare professionals are driven by work-related stress, burnout, anxiety, and job insecurity, leading to migration for better opportunities abroad. These factors explained by Maslow's hierarchy of needs, push and pull theory, and cognitive dissonance theory, present a comprehensive understanding. The study suggests systemic changes to reduce migration pressures for healthcare workers, including stress management programs, improved working conditions, professional recognition, and effective retention strategies. Keywords: Healthcare, Healthcare Professionals, Migration, Psychological Factors.