The Federal Government has urged the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to move beyond policy formulation to concrete, measurable action in order to reposition the Association as a key driver of health sector transformation in Nigeria.
The call was made by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO) in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, while delivering the keynote address at the NMA Annual Lecture Series and the launch of its 5-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2030) in Abuja. The event was themed “From Strategy to Impact: Repositioning the Nigerian Medical Association as Catalyst for Health Sector Transformation.”
In a press statement signed by Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations Department, OSGF, Dr. Kana congratulated the NMA President, Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu, and the association’s leadership on what he described as an epoch-making strategic document.
He noted that the unveiling of the plan was timely, especially amid the growing migration of healthcare professionals, popularly referred to as the “Japa syndrome,” which continues to pose serious challenges to Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
Dr. Kana stressed that meaningful transformation in the health sector must be evident by 2030 through improved mortality indices, better retention of doctors, expanded health insurance coverage and enhanced quality of life for Nigerians. He also called for stronger internal reforms within the NMA, including transparent governance, digital engagement platforms, broader member participation and sustained mentorship for younger medical professionals.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, commended the NMA leadership for what he described as a profound and forward-looking initiative. He said the decision to develop a clear strategic roadmap ahead of future global engagements reflects foresight, responsibility and commitment to strengthening the health sector.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu, described the NMA 5-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2030) as more than a roadmap, noting that it represents a clear statement of intent shaped by extensive consultations, lessons from past experiences and a realistic assessment of the challenges confronting Nigerian doctors and their families.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of Awards of Recognition by the NMA leadership to two Permanent Secretaries in the OSGF — Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, Permanent Secretary, GSO, and Dr. John Chidiebere Ezeamama, Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs Office — in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Association.
The event also featured a panel discussion by seasoned medical professionals and the official launch of the NMA 5-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2030).
