…NMA Confers Awards of Recognition to Dr. Kana & Dr. Ezeamama for their Outstanding Contribution to the Association
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, has urged the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to move beyond planning to measurable action to reposition the Association as a catalyst for national health sector transformation.
Dr. Kana made this call while delivering the keynote address at the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Annual Lecture Series and Launch of the NMA 5-Year Strategic Plan with the theme, “From Strategy to Impact: Repositioning the Nigerian Medical Association as Catalyst for Health Sector Transformation” in Abuja.
Having congratulated the President of the NMA, Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu, and his leadership team for successfully producing the Association’s epoch-making Strategic Plan 2026–2030, he stated that the unveiling is timely, particularly in the face of the growing migration of healthcare professionals, popularly referred to as the “Japa syndrome,” which has continued to pose significant threats to Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
Dr. Kana stressed that transformation in the healthcare system must be measurable by 2030 through improved mortality indices, better doctor retention, expanded insurance coverage and enhanced quality of life. He also called for stronger internal reforms within the NMA, including transparent governance, digital engagement platforms, broader member participation and sustained mentorship of younger professionals.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako congratulated the President of the Nigerian Medical Association and members of the Executive Council for what he described as a “profound and forward-looking initiative” in developing the NMA Strategic Plan 2026-2030. He noted that the Association’s decision to design a clear roadmap ahead of future global engagements demonstrates foresight and responsibility.
In his welcome address, the President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Bala Muhammed Audu said that the NMA 5-Year Strategic Plan (2026-2030) is more than just a roadmap — but a clear statement of intent grounded in extensive consultation, lessons from past experiences, and a realistic assessment of current challenges facing Nigerian doctors and their families.
Part of the high point of the event was the presentation of Awards of Recognition by the leadership of the NMA to two Permanent Secretaries in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation: Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, and the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs Office, Dr. John Chidiebere Ezeamama for their outstanding contribution the Association; panel discussion session by erudite panelists in the medical field and the official launching of the NMA 5-Year Strategic Plan (2026-2030).
Dewan Nengak Goshit
Head, Information & Public Relations Department
6th February, 2026
