The Secretary to the Abia State Government (SSG), Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, has urged members of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) to remain focused, dedicated and committed to their professional duties.
Dr. Meribole made the call when members of the NMA, Abia State Chapter, paid him a courtesy visit in his office. He said the commitment of medical professionals was important to improving healthcare delivery and ensuring that residents receive quality medical services.
The SSG said the administration of Governor Alex Otti was committed to developing the health sector and creating a better working environment for healthcare workers.
According to him, more than 15 per cent of the state’s budget is currently being allocated to the health sector, which he said reflects the administration’s priority on healthcare development.
Dr. Meribole thanked the NMA delegation for the visit and encouraged medical professionals to remain active in the democratic process, especially as the country approaches another political season.
Earlier, the Chief Medical Director of Abia Specialist Hospital, Dr. Chimezie Okwuonu, congratulated Dr. Meribole on his appointment as SSG.
Dr. Okwuonu also disclosed that the NMA had won the bid to host its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abia in December next year. He appealed to the state government to support the association to ensure the successful hosting of the national meeting.
The Chairman of the NMA, Abia State Chapter, and leader of the delegation, Dr. Daniel Ekeleme, said the visit was to identify with the SSG and appreciate the state government for its efforts to improve the health sector.
He said the association recognised the administration’s efforts in retrofitting and strengthening healthcare facilities across the state.
Dr. Ekeleme also invited the SSG to the association’s forthcoming Physicians’ Week. He used the opportunity to highlight some of the challenges facing medical practitioners in the state and appealed to the government to work with the association in finding lasting solutions.
