The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting, tagged “Gateway 2025”, commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony and scientific conference held in Ogun State. The event brought together distinguished medical professionals, policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders from across the country to deliberate on issues central to the advancement of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

The National President of NMA, Prof Bala Audu, in his opening remark, urged government at both the federal and subnational level to treat doctors with more respect and appreciation for the job they do and to improve their welfare so they can do more for the country. Prof Audu emphasized that the welfare of doctors is crucial to the success of the healthcare system and that the government must prioritize their well-being.

Prof Audu posited that the country has a potential for revisiting medical tourism, as well as being an international hub for the training of healthcare professionals. He emphasized the need for the government to invest in the healthcare sector and create an enabling environment for medical professionals to thrive.

The Ogun State NMA Chairman, Dr Luqman Ogunjimi, said that the theme of this year’s NEC, “Beyond Crossroad: Unlocking Health System Potential through Partnership” and the subtheme, ‘Caring for the Caregiver: Doctor’s Welfarism and Mental Resilience in a Broken System, are timely and relevant. He noted that the welfare of doctors and healthcare providers is a priority and that all hands must be on deck and remain committed to supporting this cause to improve productivity in the health sector.

The Commissioner of Health in Ogun State, Dr Tomi Coker, who was present at the event, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving the healthcare system and supporting medical professionals. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and medical professionals to achieve better health outcomes for the people of Ogun State.

The Chairman of the occasion, Dr Oluwole Kukoyi, pioneer District Governor of Rotary International District 9111, welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of the event. He noted that the NMA NEC Meeting provides a platform for medical professionals to discuss critical issues affecting the healthcare sector and chart a way forward for the industry.

Goodwill messages were delivered by invited guests, including the Honourable Minister for Health (State) Dr Kunle Salako, represented by MD Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Dr Sarah Ibiyemi, and the Alake of

Egbaland, represented by Professor Adelekan, a consultant psychiatrist and past General Secretary of NMA Ogun.

The Scientific Conference featured presentations on cutting-edge research, evidence-based practices, and emerging trends in medicine. Dr Tunde Ipaye, a former commissioner for health in Ogun State, delivered a lecture titled “Beyond Crossroads; Unlocking Health System Potential Through Partnership”. He emphasized the need for public-private partnership to strengthen Nigeria’s health system and improve healthcare delivery.

Dr Ipaye noted that the country’s capital Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is one of the lowest among countries within the rank of Nigeria’s economy, and that the 3.7 percent of GDP allocated to healthcare is too low to cater for a population of 230 million people.

The event also featured a panel session on “Caring for the Caregivers: Doctors Welfare and Mental Resilience in a broken System”, with panellists Prof. Olayinka Atilola, Dr Yusuff Quudus, and Dr. Fatima Zarah Mairami, discussing the importance of prioritizing doctors’ welfare and mental resilience.

The NMA President, Prof Bala Audu, presented awards to outstanding individuals and organizations, including the Governor of Kwara State, who was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Health in Kwara State, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Chairman NMA Ogun, Dr Luqman Ogunjimi, who thanked the NMA President and all invited guests for their participation.