By Gabriel Olawale

LAGOS — Vanguard newspapers’ Health correspondent, Mrs. Chioma Obinna, has won the Nigeria Healthcare Excellence Award, NHEA. The award, which was described as the highest honour for unparalled excellence in the Nigeria healthcare sector, was in recognition of outstanding contributions of individuals and institutions towards improving access to quality healthcare in the country.

Organisers of the award said Obinna is being recognised for her contributions in educating and advocating good healthcare, awareness and survival of Nigerians. Obinna was nominated alongside other health correspondents from Punch and Business day newspapers. Presenting the award, former President, West African College of Physicians, Dr. Sonny Kuku, said: “The write-ups and reports presented by the winner have distinguished her among her colleagues.

Her commitment to excellence has been noted and rewarded among the numerous nominees for the second edition of the NHEA. To some of us, it was not a surprise, as some of her stories have helped in enlightening and given directions in some of the critical issues in the healthcare sector.”

Speaking on the award, Chairman, panel of judges, Professor Soyibo Adedoyin, said NHEA award was part of the initiative by Global Health Projects and Resources and Anadach Group to reward dedicated healthcare professionals throughout the country who worked tirelessly to care for the citizens of Nigeria.

According to him, “we recognise them all by honouring a special few who have demonstrated leadership, brilliance and bravery through their commitment, expertise and selflessness on behalf of the health community and the patients they serve.” “The NHEA awards are presented in four categories, special awards, healthcare delivery services, biomedical technology and pharmaceuticals.

“To select the winner, apart from our online and offline nominations, we had five independent panel of judges who ensured a thorough process of screening and selection. They have principle-driven values, they strive for perfection, they have enormous faith in the human potential and they are compassionate visionaries’ sterling virtues indeed.”