In Nigeria, the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari in a London clinic has reignited debate over the country’s long-standing medical tourism trend.

Government data shows Nigerians spend between $1 to $1.6 billion annually on medical treatment abroad, a figure critics argue reflects deep-rooted neglect of the domestic healthcare system.

Buhari’s death, following a prolonged illness treated overseas, has sparked renewed public outcry over why top officials continue to bypass local hospitals.

Health advocates say the growing dependence on foreign care undermines investment in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and widens inequality in access to quality treatment.