From Josiah Buzun
President Muhammadu Buhari has sought for the Support of Medical Doctors in reforming the Health sector in order to deliver a Health system that is responsive to the needs of Nigerians.
The President stated this while declaring open the 61st Annual General Conference and Delegates Meeting of the Nigeria Medical Association tagged ‘TIN CITY’ 2023, held in Jos, Plateau State.
President Buhari said despite the fragile health system in the country, Doctors have continued to respond to disease.
Represented by the Minister of Health, Professor Osagie Ehanire, President Buhari said the health system has a long way to go in meeting demands of Nigerians.
In his address, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau state, who spoke on the numerous achievements of the health sector in the State, expressed concern over the issue of strikes and its negative impact.
President, Nigeria Medical Association Professor Innocent Ujah stressed the need for focus on the importance of resilient and strong health system as the COVID 19 Pandemic has thoroughly exposed the vulnerability of the Country’s health system.
Chairman of the occasion and Minister of Women Affairs Dame Paulin Tallen emphasized the need to address the challenges of women and girls as well as create awareness on strategies that will eliminate harmful and discriminatory practices that reduces their status in the society.
Keynote speaker and former Minister of Health Professor Isaac Adewole called for more investment in the health sector.
In a remark , Chairman NMA Plateau State, Dr Innocent Emmanuel said the theme of the conference, which is ‘ NIGERIA AND THE GLOBAL HEALTH AGENDA 2030’ was carefully chosen to brace up with where the country is as well as ensure a Healthy society despite the COVID 19 Pandemic.
About 1000 delegates across the country are attending the one week conference.