The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commended Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his administration’s reforms in the health sector and measures aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of medical professionals in the state.
The outgoing NARD National President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, gave the commendation on Tuesday when he led a delegation of the association on a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr Peter Odey, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.
Suleiman specifically praised the administration for the 100 per cent implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), describing it as a significant intervention towards improving the welfare and working conditions of medical doctors and other health professionals.
He also commended Governor Otu for the upgrading of Primary Healthcare Centres, strengthening of the Hospital Management Board, enactment of the Medical Quackery Prohibition Law and establishment of the Drug Management Agency, noting that the initiatives would strengthen healthcare administration and service delivery.
The NARD President further acknowledged the extension of the retirement age for health workers to 65 years and the lifting of the employment embargo, including the recruitment of medical specialists, describing the measures as important interventions towards strengthening the state’s healthcare workforce.
Suleiman said the association appreciated the Governor Otu-led administration for creating an environment that supports the professional growth and welfare of healthcare workers while advancing measures to improve healthcare services for Cross Riverians.
Suleiman disclosed that the delegation’s visit was part of preparations for the 46th NARD Annual General Meeting and the inauguration of the association’s 46th National President, Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, in Calabar, with the opening ceremony scheduled for Thursday and the inauguration of the new national president and his executive on Friday.
Responding, Deputy Governor Peter Odey reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and improving the welfare of medical professionals across the state.
Odey said the Otu administration had deliberately prioritised the health sector as a critical component of its People First agenda, assuring that government would continue to implement policies and programmes aimed at improving access to quality healthcare.
He said the administration was committed to creating an enabling environment for medical professionals to practise, build their careers and contribute meaningfully to the state’s healthcare system.
According to him, government would continue to improve conditions of service, strengthen healthcare institutions and address factors contributing to the “Japa” tendency among doctors and other skilled health professionals.
The Deputy Governor also appreciated NARD for choosing Cross River State to host its 46th Annual General Meeting, expressing optimism that the gathering would provide an important platform for professional exchange, knowledge sharing and meaningful discussions on the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
By Ukongikwen Adie
