India has remained a leading destination for Nigerian medical tourists, driven primarily by affordability, advanced technology, and faster access to specialised care.
Recent data from the Indian High Commission, for instance, showed that 47 percent of Nigerians visiting India did so to get medical attention, this amounted to 18000 issued visas and about N41.6 billion is scarce foreign exchange in 2013.
BusinessDay also gathered that over 5,000 Nigerians visit India and countries in Europe and America monthly in search of medical care.
A Lagos-based Indian businessman, Sanjay Jain, highlighted these factors during an interactive session with journalists at the Mike Adenuga Center at Victoria Island, Lagos State, on March 22, 2026.
He noted that healthcare services in India are typically 60 to 70 percent cheaper than in Western countries, allowing Nigerians to access high-quality treatment at a fraction of the cost.
“Medical procedures in India are significantly more affordable, ensuring top-quality care without the long waiting periods common elsewhere,” Jain said.
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Beyond cost, India’s strong reputation in complex medical care continues to attract Nigerian patients. Many travel for treatments such as cardiac surgery, cancer care, kidney transplants, neurosurgery, orthopedic procedures, and eye treatments, where India has built global expertise and high success rates.
Jain emphasized that Indian hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge technologies, internationally accredited facilities, and highly skilled professionals, making them competitive globally. Dedicated international patient departments, often staffed by English-speaking professionals, further ease communication and coordination for Nigerians.
Another key driver is speed he stated. Unlike many countries where patients face long surgical wait times, India offers prompt scheduling and streamlined care, supported by a flexible medical visa system that allows patients and their relatives to plan treatment, travel, and accommodation in advance.
However, the growing reliance on India also reflects systemic gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system, including limited advanced equipment and specialist capacity. According to the News Agency of Nigeria, medical tourism costs the country about $1 billion annually, placing additional strain on foreign exchange reserves.
While India continues to dominate as a preferred destination, Jain noted signs of change. Increased investment in Nigeria’s health sector and a reported decline in medical tourism spending in early 2025 suggest a gradual shift toward strengthening local capacity.
He cautioned, however, that overseas treatment is not without risks, particularly when complications arise after patients return home.
Ultimately, while India offers a reliable alternative for critical care, experts stress that sustainable investment in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure remains essential to reduce dependence on foreign treatment and improve access to quality care locally.
