NMA Asaba Zone Advocates for Professional Ethics and Modernisation in Medicine at AGM and Scientific Conference
ASABA/Nigeria: The 2024 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Asaba Zone, held in the Delta State capital, focused on the theme, “Re-establishing Professional Values and Esteem in Medical Practice in Nigeria.”
The event brought together medical professionals, government representatives, and healthcare stakeholders to address pressing issues in the sector.
Dr. Christopher Otene, the NMA Asaba Zone Chairman, in his opening remarks, emphasised the critical need for medical practitioners to uphold professional ethics and embrace modern technology to align with global standards.
He decried the persistent brain drain within the medical profession, urging the government to enhance security and improve remuneration for healthcare workers to curb the exodus of skilled professionals. Dr. Otene expressed delight at the high turnout of members, which he described as a testament to the dedication of the medical community.
Representing the Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Honourable Solomon Ighrakpata, Chief Frank Nwugo lauded the peaceful and orderly conduct of the NMA Asaba Zone. He also appealed to the association’s national leadership to intensify efforts to tackle the brain drain crisis affecting Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, delivered a lecture highlighting the state’s achievements in health insurance. He revealed that over 1.8 million vulnerable individuals had been registered under the scheme, with special attention given to hard-to-reach and riverine communities. Dr. Akpoveta credited Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s unwavering support for the programme’s success, describing it as a significant step in improving healthcare accessibility.
The conference also featured insightful presentations by Dr. Minni Oseji, Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Environment, and a representative of the Nordica Fertility Centre. The unveiling of the second edition of the NMA Asaba Zone Newsletter was a notable highlight of the event, showcasing the zone’s activities and contributions to the medical profession.
The gathering underscored the need for a collective approach to restoring the dignity of medical practice in Nigeria, with participants calling for reforms to ensure sustainable growth in the healthcare sector.
