By Ozioruva Aliu

ABUJA — Newly elected President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Prof. Afekhide Ernest Omoti, has pledged to prioritise doctors’ welfare, strengthen professional unity, and push for reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare system following his emergence as leader of the association.

In his acceptance speech after the NMA’s 2026 election, Omoti expressed gratitude to members for the mandate, describing his victory as a collective achievement for Nigerian doctors.

“This victory is not mine alone—it belongs to every doctor across Nigeria who believes in a stronger and more purposeful association,” he said.

The new NMA president acknowledged the challenges faced by medical practitioners across the country, noting that many continue to work under difficult conditions in both urban and rural health facilities.

He commended doctors for their resilience and dedication, describing them as central to the country’s healthcare delivery system.

Outlining his agenda for the 2026–2028 tenure, Omoti said his administration would focus on improving the welfare and professional dignity of doctors, enhancing engagement with government and key stakeholders, and promoting unity within the association.

He also pledged to support capacity development and position Nigerian doctors for global competitiveness.

“Our goal is to build a stronger association, protect the interests of doctors, and contribute to a healthcare system that truly serves Nigerians,” he stated.

Omoti extended a hand of cooperation to his co-contestants, urging members to set aside differences and work together for the advancement of the profession.

“There is no ‘us’ or ‘them.’ There is only one association with a shared mission,” he said.

He further assured young doctors that their concerns would receive attention, promising efforts to create opportunities that would enable them to build sustainable careers within the country.

The NMA president also called on senior members and past leaders to continue offering guidance, stressing the importance of institutional continuity.

Omoti said his administration would be inclusive, engaging Nigerian doctors both at home and in the diaspora.

He described his election as the beginning of a new phase for the association, expressing optimism about reforms and progress in the health sector.

The Nigerian Medical Association is the umbrella body for medical doctors in Nigeria, playing a key role in advocacy, policy engagement, and professional development within the health sector.