Posted on: Sun 01-06-2025

Abeokuta, Ogun State – The Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP) held its 47th International Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting, tagged "Gateway 2025," from April 22 to 27, 2025, at Conference Hotel, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta. The event, themed "Unlocking the Value Chain: The Role of Government and Private Medical Practitioners," addressed pressing challenges in Nigeria's health sector and proposed actionable solutions.

The conference, chaired by Dr. Babatunde Ipadeola, featured a keynote address by Dr. Olusola Kukoyi on "The Japa Syndrome: Impact on the National Health System and Migrant Health Workers." The 2025 Anden Ena lecture was delivered by Dr. Donald Duke, former Governor of Cross River State, who also received the Senator of the Opening Ceremony award. Notable dignitaries in attendance included HE George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; HE Prince Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State; and Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, representing the Minister of Health.

The ANPMP highlighted the brain drain affecting Nigeria’s health sector, noting that the country is losing significant manpower. The association criticized the Federal Ministry of Health’s policy on drug prescription and dispensing, calling it a barrier to clinical competence and patient safety. They also raised concerns over multiple taxation imposed on members by various government and regulatory bodies.

Key resolutions from the conference included a call for private medical practitioners to be promptly paid for emergency services under the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Services (NEMSAS). The ANPMP urged the government to reduce electricity tariffs for private hospitals, emphasizing that healthcare delivery should not rely solely on public facilities. The association reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to enhance public awareness, improve coverage, and ensure the scheme’s success.

The ANPMP also advocated for the inclusion of private practitioners in the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and stressed the need for better regulation, professional accountability, and ethical practices to strengthen the healthcare system. Pre-conference activities included visits to Alake of Egbaland, HRM Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, and ultrasound training at the NMA House in Abeokuta.

Distinguished Medical Practitioners (DMP) honored at the event included Dr. Bethuel John Amakiri and Dr. Adeyemi James Rabana, while Fellows of the Association of General Practice (FAGP) recipients included Dr. Odogu Victor Kronakagha and Dr. Egbon Emmanuel. The conference concluded with gratitude to attendees and a call for continued collaboration to improve Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.

For more information, contact ANPMP National Secretariat at Plot 1022, Mayor’s Estate, Games Village Expressway, Near Human Right Radio, Bereket, Kaura District, Abuja, or via email at [email protected].

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