ASABA/Nigeria: The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) in its Biennial General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Asaba, Delta state capital, elected Dr. Philemon Okolie, a distinguished Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, was elected as the new Chairman, while Dr. Onoriode Umolo, a Consultant Ophthalmologist, was elected the association’s Secretary.
Joining the new executive team are esteemed professionals, made up of Dr. Obiajulu Uwaka, a Consultant Family Physician, as Vice Chairman, and Dr. Ndidi Okoro, a skilled Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, as Assistant Secretary. Dr. Grace Eseka, a dedicated Consultant Pediatrician, takes on the role of Treasurer, while Dr. Valentine Ezeashi, a seasoned Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, steps into the position of Public Relations Officer. Rounding out the team is Dr. Francis Nwabua, an experienced Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist, who serves as Ex-Officio 1.
Addressing the assembly during his acceptance speech, Dr. Philemon Okolie, Chairman of the MDCAN Delta State HMB chapter, expressed gratitude for the trust vested in the new executive and promised a transformative era for the association.
“This marks the inauguration of a new era in the annals of MDCAN HMB Delta State,” Dr. Okolie affirmed. “The responsibility of fortifying the association’s foundation rests on all of us. I call upon every member to unite in crafting a more resilient and vibrant collective vision.”
Dr. Okolie underscored the association’s mission and objectives, as enshrined in its constitution while outlining its strategic focus on Delta State and the extensive purview of the State Hospitals Management Board.
He affirmed the new executive’s commitment to member welfare and urged the congregation to contribute ideas fostering efficacy and positivity within the association.
In acknowledging the previous executive led by Dr. Francis Nwabua for their innovations and accomplishments, Dr. Okolie pledged to build upon their successes and introduce new initiatives in due course, welcoming the input of all members.
Dr. Francis Nwabua, outgoing Chairman of MDCAN, reflected on the challenging past two years in the healthcare sector, characterized by brain drain, economic difficulties, and inadequate remuneration for medical professionals. He called upon the incoming executive to strive for greater achievements and extend the association’s impact.
Dr. Nwabua credited the achievements of his tenure to the unwavering dedication of his team and the collective support of association members. He lauded their commitment and resilience in navigating the complex landscape of healthcare.
Prior to the General Meeting and Scientific Conference, the association conducted a four-day free medical outreach at General Hospital, Okwe, providing critical medical consultations and surgeries across specialties from July 24th to 27th, 2023.
The Biennial General Meeting and Scientific Conference, expertly chaired by retired Permanent Secretary Dr. (Mrs.) Caroline Ajuyah, focused on the theme “Specialist Medical Practice in Nigeria: Opportunities, Challenges, and Solutions.” Distinguished figures in the field presented keynotes, including Professor Stanley Ukadike Okugbo, a Consultant Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, and Professor Kenneth Stanley Eze, a prominent Consultant Radiologist from Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital.
The event, attended by healthcare professionals, featured dynamic panel discussions spanning healthcare and governance, as well as insightful addresses, notably from Dr. Victor Makanjuola, the National President of MDCAN.
The highpoint of the event was the installation of the new executive, accompanied by an elegant dinner celebration, which also included recognition of retiring association members.
