As Nigeria marks her 62nd independence, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called for appropriate budgetary allocation to the Health sector and Universal Health coverage.
The Association made this call in the congratulatory message signed by its President, Dr Uche Ojinmah to President Muhammadu Buhari, on the occasion of the 62nd independence anniversary of Nigeria
The NMA also urged President Buhari to stem the tide of Medical brain drain amongst other germane issues in the Health sector.
He said; “Mr. President, on behalf of the National Officers’ Committee and the entire members of the Nigerian Medical Association, I bring you warm greetings on the 62nd Independence Anniversary celebration of our dear country, Nigeria. I, therefore, congratulate our great citizens here in Nigeria and the Diaspora.’’
“Nigeria is a blessed nation endowed by God with abundant human and material resources. Our greatest asset is our people and our diversity. I thank God for keeping us together despite the turbulence and upheavals we have experienced as a people. I pray for God to grant us the nation of our dreams.’’
“As the parasol for all medical and dental practitioners in Nigeria, the NMA is the custodian of the people’s health and the leading professional association suitably placed to continue to engage our governments at all levels to make adequate provisions for the health of our people. This advocacy is inherent in our constant calls for appropriate budgetary allocation to health, universal health coverage, and stemming the tide of medical brain drain amongst other germane issues in the health sector for which the NMA is a champion.’’
“As we approach the next general elections in 2023, I urge Nigerians to be determined to make the age of 62 the best for Nigeria by insisting on credible polls. The insistence on credible polls starts with participation in the electoral process by registering and obtaining a Permanent Voters Card, setting an agenda for the candidates and demanding accountability from elected officials. I am glad that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, has reiterated his determination to leave a legacy of transparent, free and fair polls.’’
“Congratulations Mr President, for your efforts in governance, and may God crown your efforts with success.’’
“God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”