The International College of Surgeons, Nigeria Section (ICS-NS) has inducted 40 medical doctors as Fellows of the College during its 58th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Abuja.
The induction was performed by the outgoing President of the College, Prof. Akanimo Essiet, who administered the oath of allegiance to the new fellows.
The inductees pledged to uphold the ethics and code of conduct of the College.
Essiet charged the fellows to always prioritise patient safety and maintain professional integrity at all times.
“The ICS is a body of seasoned and responsible medical professionals. As Fellows, you must conduct yourselves with dignity and commitment if you are to be recognised as active members,” he said.
In an interview with journalists, Essiet listed inadequate manpower, poor funding, and lack of modern equipment as key challenges facing the college and the wider health sector.
He expressed concern over the increasing rate of medical personnel leaving the country in search of better opportunities, attributing the trend to poor working conditions and insufficient investment in healthcare.
Essiet called on the Federal Government to increase funding for the sector, especially the National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA), which he said should be expanded to cover more Nigerians.
“If properly funded, the NHIA can make significant impact in improving access to healthcare for millions,” he added.
Prof. Ben Jiburum, the President-elect of the college, also called for increased investment in the health sector, noting that better funding would improve technology and healthcare delivery.
“Young doctors, who should be driving national growth, are leaving the country in droves. We’ve invested so much in their training, but the system is not giving them reasons to stay,” he said.
Prof. Alexander Nwofor, a former President of the college, joined other speakers in advocating for improved remuneration and welfare for medical practitioners.
He urged members to remain committed to patient safety and continue updating their skills for quality service delivery.
Dr Grace Nwana, the outgoing National Treasurer, appealed to government to address insecurity and provide necessary equipment for medical professionals.
“Insecurity remains a major hindrance in the health sector. Government must find a lasting solution,” she said.
The conference, which commenced on June 23, featured medical outreach activities and presentations on advancing surgical safety in developing economies. (NAN)
