The Association of Resident Doctors, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (ARD-UITH), commended the Federal Government for declaring a state of emergency on Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Dr. Mubarak Ijaiya, the President of ARD-UITH, made this commendation on Monday in Ilorin during a news conference at the commencement of the 40th Annual General Meeting/Sir Adola Aderibigbe Scientific Conference.
“We are happy and excited that the government has declared a state of emergency on our healthcare system, and we hope that they will critically investigate modalities to improve it,” he said.
He expressed hope that this action would enhance healthcare delivery and curb the exodus of health workers.
Dr. Ijaiya observed that the past year witnessed both significant highs and troubling lows, citing the loss of a colleague, Dr. Adekunle Suleiman, as one of the lowest points.
Despite numerous challenges, he mentioned some modest achievements, such as the recruitment of resident doctors, payment of medical residency training funds to members, refurbishment of the secretariat and call rooms. Notably, the association took leadership at the national level.
The AGM and scientific conference, he explained, are constitutional mandates of the association used to celebrate the successful completion of the executive year and usher in another executive year with new members taking leadership roles.
“The week’s activities include medical screening for members, orphanage visits, quiz competitions, and table tennis, among others,” he added.
The theme of the conference is: “Multidimensional Implications of Bullying and Burnout Among Medical Practitioners in Nigeria.” The sub-theme is: “The Looming Increase in the Rate of Assault on Health Workers: The Role of Government.”
