The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is set to develop a Strategic Plan for the next five years, covering 2025-2030.
This plan aims to address various challenges in the health sector and improve the welfare of Nigerian doctors.
This was contained in a communique issued at the end of the 3rd NMA National Health Summit and the National Executive Council (NEC) of the association held from December 2nd to 6th in Abuja.
The communique signed by the NMA President and Secretary General, Professor Bala Audu and Dr Benjamin Egbo, recommended enhanced collaboration with medical doctors in government and positions of authority to harness their expertise and resources in addressing the myriads of challenges and proposed solutions that have been agreed at the Summit.
“The NEC suggested that Health workers should be trained on the importance of pharmacovigilance and the use of e-reporting through the Med Safety App”
“The NHS advised that the Association should work closely with state branches to develop mechanisms that enhance doctors’ welfare, improved security and comprehensive health insurance coverage for all Doctors,”
The Summit also encouraged exploring the possibility of partnership and signing Memoranda of Understanding with doctors in the diaspora to deepen collaboration and exchange via partnership with the Nigeria Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and other related local and international groups.
The Opening Ceremony of the Summit under the distinguished Chairman of Brig. Gen Buba Marwa (rtd.) was attended by several prominent Nigerians including the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria represented by the Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Minister of State for Health Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, represented by Dr Abdullahi Isa, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defense, Dr Ibrahim Kana mni, among others.
In his keynote address, the minister of health, Professor Pate, emphasised the health sector’s strategic engagement, which is geared towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.
He explained the Sector-Wide Approach initiative of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He emphasized the need to continue improving and strengthening the PHC services to bridge the gaps in the health system.
The NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, appreciated members for their participation in the just concluded 3rd National Health Summit and reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the health system works for all Nigerians and also his desire and commitment to improved welfare for all Nigerian doctors.
Paradigm News reports that the development of the 5-year plan is being led by the NMA National Committee on Health Policy and Planning, chaired by Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba.
The plan is expected to contribute to the achievement of Universal Health Coverage and improve the overall health system in Nigeria