Capacity building in Nigeria's healthcare sector: A review of skill development and mentorship initiatives

This paper delves into the critical realm of skill development and mentorship within Nigeria's healthcare sector, aiming to dissect and evaluate the current state of healthcare capacity building. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria's complex healthcare landscape, the study navigates through the intricacies of healthcare training, mentorship practices, and the challenges inherent in the system. The primary aim is to scrutinize the effectiveness of existing skill development initiatives and mentorship models, and how they align with the healthcare needs of Nigeria. Employing a comprehensive literature review as its methodological backbone, the paper systematically examines various government and NGO-led programs, mentorship practices, and the integration of skill development with mentorship. This approach enables a thorough analysis of the historical evolution, current challenges, and gaps in healthcare capacity building in Nigeria. The findings reveal a healthcare sector that, despite facing infrastructural and educational challenges, is witnessing progressive strides in skill development and mentorship. The study highlights the transformative impact of these initiatives on healthcare delivery, emphasizing the synergy between skill enhancement and mentorship in elevating healthcare standards. It also identifies the critical role of mentorship in fostering professional growth and leadership among healthcare practitioners. Conclusively, the paper underscores the need for a multi-faceted and collaborative approach in enhancing healthcare capacity. It recommends robust skill development programs, innovative mentorship models, and strategic policy interventions aimed at creating a sustainable, resilient, and efficient healthcare system. The study advocates for a united effort from government bodies, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and international partners to achieve these goals. This paper is a clarion call for a renewed focus on capacity building in Nigeria's healthcare sector, highlighting the path towards a more competent and responsive healthcare system.