The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Nasarawa State Branch, has congratulated the government and people of the state on its 30th anniversary, acknowledging successive administrations’ contributions to healthcare development, particularly the ongoing expansion of specialist services and revitalisation of health facilities under Governor Abdullahi Sule.
The Chairman of the association, Dr Meshi C. Emmanuel, in his Independence Day address on Friday marking Nigeria’s 66th anniversary and Nasarawa’s 30 years of creation, said the milestones provided an opportunity to celebrate achievements, reflect on challenges and renew commitment to a healthier and more prosperous society.
On healthcare development in Nasarawa, he acknowledged the contributions of successive administrations, while noting that the administration of Governor Abdullahi A. Sule had continued efforts to upgrade healthcare facilities, strengthen primary healthcare services, recruit health personnel and expand specialist services.
He specifically cited the development of Specialist Hospital, Akwanga, including a trauma centre and modern diagnostic facilities, as well as the transition of Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, into the Federal University Teaching Hospital.
According to him, the development of the Federal University Teaching Hospital provides an opportunity to expand tertiary and specialist healthcare services in the state, but he stressed the need for continuity and further investment.
Meshi said the anniversaries provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the journey of the country and state, while renewing their commitment to building a healthier, more peaceful and prosperous society.
“Independence is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of our collective responsibility to build a nation where freedom translates into dignity, opportunity, security and a better quality of life for every citizen,” he said.
He stressed that healthcare must remain at the centre of national development, noting that a child with access to quality healthcare has a better opportunity to learn and develop, while a healthy workforce contributes more effectively to the economy.
The NMA chairman commended Nigerian doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, community health workers and other healthcare professionals for their continued service despite difficult working conditions, saying their sacrifices deserved more than recognition.
“Recognition alone is not enough. The healthcare workforce must be supported with the right environment, equipment, remuneration, training and policies necessary to provide safe and effective care,” Dr. Meshi said.
He called for stronger primary healthcare facilities, better referral systems, adequately equipped secondary and tertiary hospitals, improved emergency medical services and greater access to specialist care across the state.
Dr. Meshi also urged greater attention to maternal and child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, mental health, preventive medicine and health education, stressing that healthcare should not depend on a person’s location or income.
“Healthcare should not be a privilege determined by geography or income. A citizen living in a rural community deserves the same dignity of care as someone living in an urban centre,” he said.
On the movement of health professionals abroad, the NMA chairman said the solution was not to restrict doctors and other health workers from seeking opportunities elsewhere, but to create conditions that would make Nigeria and Nasarawa attractive places to work and build sustainable careers.
“The solution lies not in restricting professionals, but in making Nigeria and Nasarawa a place where talented health workers can thrive,” he said, identifying infrastructure, professional development, research, technology and decent working conditions as key areas requiring attention.
Dr. Meshi urged citizens to take greater responsibility for their health through regular medical checks, immunisation, proper nutrition, physical activity, responsible use of medicines and early presentation at health facilities, while calling on the medical profession to uphold ethics, competence, compassion and accountability.
He said the NMA remained committed to constructive engagement with government and other stakeholders, urging authorities to view healthcare investment as an investment in human capital and the future of Nigeria and Nasarawa State.
“Let this 66th and 30th anniversary of Nigeria and Nasarawa State therefore be more than a celebration of our past. Let it be a renewed commitment to the Nigeria and Nasarawa we want to leave for the next generation,” Dr. Meshi said.