Daud Olatunji
In a historic gathering at NMA House Lukosi, Abeokuta, the old and new generations of medical personnel converged to bridge the gaps.
PLATFORM TIMES observed that the occasion was aimed at reintegrating old and senior medical doctors who have served in various capacities at the Nigerian Medical Association and state affairs back into the union.”
The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Ogun State Branch, Dr. Kunle Ashimi, while speaking at the maiden celebration of Ogun State Medical Elders on Saturday, said it was to appreciate the efforts of the elders in the profession.
Dr. Ashimi expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate and honour the distinguished elders who he said laid the foundation for the NMA Ogun State branch.
He apologized on behalf of the younger doctors for the delay in recognizing the immense contributions of these esteemed individuals to the association.
The event, which marked a significant milestone in the association’s history, saw Dr. Ashimi acknowledging key figures who played pivotal roles in the revitalization of NMA Ogun.
He highlighted the instrumental support of individuals like Dr. Peter Adefuye, Dr. Tomi Coker, and Dr. Yomi Akinjobi, whose unwavering commitment breathed life into the celebration.
Reflecting on the challenges faced during his leadership tenure, Dr. Ashimi thanked past leaders for positioning the association over the years.
He emphasized the 547 days of dedicated efforts to reposition NMA Ogun among members and the public.
Dr. Ashimi credited the support of Dr. Tomi Coker, the Honorable Commissioner for Health, and other key figures for the improvements made in doctors’ welfare, including the commencement of Hazard Allowance and MRTF payments.
The chairman highlighted the association’s successful resolution of individual member challenges, even amidst a statewide strike.
He expressed gratitude to Dr. Femi Akodu and Dr. Dayo Oluwole for their significant contributions to ensuring final year medical students could write exams during the strike period.
To enhance public engagement, NMA Ogun collaborated with various media outlets, running weekly public health education radio programmes.
Dr. Ashimi also outlined successful collaborations with organizations to bolster the social capital of doctors in Ogun State.
He added that a particularly promising development is progress on the NMA/Doctors Estate project, providing hope to members who had waited for over 15 years to acquire their plots of land.
Dr. Ashimi announced provisional approval for the layout and imminent commencement of infrastructure development.
While acknowledging the challenges of completing the NMA House project, Dr. Ashimi expressed determination to see it through, seeking sponsorship for its completion.
Dr. Ashimi expressed deep gratitude to the executive members, the committee in charge of the programme, and, most importantly, the esteemed medical elders, wishing them long, happy lives in excellent health and fulfillment.
The celebration concluded with a call for the elders to revel in their day, marking a triumphant acknowledgment of the past, celebration of the present, and anticipation of a vibrant future for the Nigerian Medical Association in the State.
The Commissioner for Health in her remarks lauded the NMA in the state for its supportive roles to the government, calling for more support.
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