New NMA Edo Executives Meet Health Commissioner, Seek Stronger Collaboration to Advance Healthcare
New NMA Edo Executives Meet Health Commissioner, Seek Stronger Collaboration to Advance Healthcare
By Admin
The newly inaugurated Executive Council of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Edo State Branch*, has paid a courtesy visit to the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole*, to congratulate him and explore ways of deepening partnership in the health sector.The delegation was led by the newly elected NMA Chairman, Dr. Andrew Elgbedion, who assumed office in August 2026, succeeding Dr. Eustace Oseghale.
The meeting served as an avenue for the new NMA leadership to applaud the state government’s strides in healthcare delivery and to propose areas for enhanced collaboration between medical practitioners and the Ministry of Health.
Welcoming the NMA team, Dr. Oshiomhole congratulated the new executives on their election and pledged the continued commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to improving the health and welfare of Edo people.
He highlighted one of the administration’s flagship programmes — the free malaria screening, testing and treatment initiative. According to him, Edo State is among the few states in Nigeria currently running such a comprehensive malaria intervention at no cost to residents.
“This administration is focused on making quality healthcare accessible and affordable. The free malaria programme is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” the Commissioner said.
Dr. Oshiomhole also urged for a stronger working relationship between the NMA, the Ministry of Health, and the state government*, built on professionalism, mutual respect and open dialogue.
He briefed the association on the ongoing efforts to contain the diphtheria outbreak in the state. He disclosed that the World Health Organization, WHO, has commended the Edo State Ministry of Health for its proactive steps in managing the outbreak.
The Commissioner added that the Ministry has been working closely with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, and the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, ISTH, to strengthen response mechanisms.
“We are committed to improving coordination and synergy among all stakeholders to ensure we contain this outbreak and protect our people,” he stated.
NMA Applauds Government Interventions
In his response, Dr. Andrew Elgbedion expressed appreciation to the Commissioner and the state government for the visible improvements in the health sector.
He specifically commended the free malaria treatment programme, the renovation of doctors’ quarters across hospitals, and the recent upward review of health workers’ salaries.
The NMA Chairman also welcomed the government’s adoption of a single treasury account system, describing it as a step in the right direction that would promote financial accountability and transparency in the management of public health facilities.
“We appreciate the efforts so far. These policies will go a long way in boosting morale and improving service delivery,” Dr. Elgbedion said.
He assured the Commissioner that the new NMA leadership is ready to work hand-in-hand with the Ministry to advance healthcare delivery and protect the interests of both patients and medical professionals in Edo State.
The visit ended with both parties agreeing to sustain regular engagements to address challenges and improve health outcomes across the state.

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