By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

No fewer than 1,000 medical practitioners from across Nigeria and the diaspora have converged on Kaduna State for the 8th edition of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Doctors’ Games, a week-long sporting event aimed at promoting unity, wellness, and professional camaraderie.

The event, tagged KADA 2026, officially commenced on Monday, with participants drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, NMA President, Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu, described the gathering as a celebration of friendship, teamwork, and healthy competition among members of the medical profession.

“Today, we gather to celebrate what is often called the human race under the theme of friendship, teamwork, and healthy competition,” he said.

Prof. Audu noted that despite the demanding nature of their profession, doctors are united by shared values and aspirations. He stressed that the Games serve as an important reminder of the need for balance, solidarity, and personal well-being.

He explained that the initiative was designed to promote peace, happiness, better living, unity, and camaraderie among doctors nationwide, particularly at a time when medical practice has become increasingly intense and tasking.

According to him, the sporting fiesta provides an opportunity for practitioners to recharge, reconnect, and strengthen professional bonds while enhancing both physical and mental health.

The NMA president commended members of the Advisory Committee, National Sports Committee, state officials, and other stakeholders for their dedication to organising the Games, urging participants to compete with passion, fairness, and respect for the rules.

In his welcome address, Chairman of the NMA Kaduna State Branch and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. Hassan Bala Salihu, expressed pride in Kaduna hosting the 8th edition of the event.

Salihu said this year’s Games focus on unity, wellness, resilience, and professional harmony, emphasising that a healthy doctor is essential to building a healthy nation.

He added that from February 9 to 15, participants will engage in various indoor and outdoor sporting activities designed to foster teamwork, discipline, and national integration across ethnic and regional divides.

Also speaking, the Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Stakeholder Relations, Engr. Martins Galadima, conveyed Governor Uba Sani’s goodwill to the participants.

She reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery through improved facilities, personnel recruitment, and enhanced welfare for health workers.