Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kazeem Biriowo
Published on 2024-02-25 20:26:00
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, recently engaged with diaspora physicians in a groundbreaking event. This event marked the first time a Minister in the Federal Ministry of Health in Nigeria held an open dialogue with Nigerian healthcare professionals in the diaspora. The meeting, organized by Dr. Bayo Adedewe, the Special Adviser on Diaspora Health Affairs, brought together around 400 distinguished physicians, surgeons, professors, and allied practitioners from all around the world for a productive and informative discussion.
Dr. Alausa, along with Minister of Health, Professor Pate, reported on the progress made by the reinvigorated ministry in the nine months under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Minister outlined his plans, known as the “four pillars of action,” with great energy and enthusiasm. As an American-trained nephrologist, he emphasized the importance of diaspora participation in efforts to improve healthcare and research in Nigeria. He encouraged attendees to show loyalty to Nigeria and contribute to the ongoing healthcare initiatives.
Healthcare has been a top priority for the current administration under President Tinubu, with the largest healthcare budget in the country’s history. Dr. Alausa discussed upcoming upgrades to major hospitals and Federal Medical Centers, as well as the nationwide expansion of healthcare services. He also addressed the shortage of healthcare workers and challenged diaspora physicians to contribute to enhancing quality and healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
To tackle the shortage of doctors and allied medical professionals, Dr. Alausa announced directives to double the intake at all Medical Schools and allied health departments. Additionally, he proposed using Lagos State as a model for new healthcare initiatives, with the General Hospitals in Lagos serving as clinical training grounds for the new Health Sciences University in the state.
During the discussion, a caller raised concerns about a Dental School facing accreditation issues and needing more equipment. Dr. Alausa pointed to the progress made at the Ibadan College of Medicine as an example of successful fundraising and encouraged attendees to support their alma maters generously.
The event lasted almost three hours, with Dr. Alausa providing authoritative and detailed answers to questions from callers worldwide. The attendees praised his visionary approach and eagerly anticipated future engagements. Dr. Abike Dabiri, Chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), stressed the importance of reengaging diaspora healthcare expatriates and highlighted the revitalized Diaspora-Nigeria Healthcare initiative with the Ministry of Health’s support.
Overall, the meeting with diaspora physicians was a significant step towards improving healthcare in Nigeria. Dr. Alausa’s leadership and vision for the future of healthcare in the country were well-received, and the diaspora healthcare professionals showed enthusiasm for contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance the healthcare system.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
