Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), emphasized the crucial need for unity among Nigerian medical professionals in the diaspora to create a substantial impact and transform the narrative of healthcare tourism in Nigeria. She conveyed this message as the guest of honor at the launch of the Women in Health Care Network (WIHCN), held at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.
During her address, Dabiri-Erewa expressed her belief that women are well-positioned to drive such initiatives and commended the founder and chair, Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, along with other members, for their commendable efforts. Acknowledging the migration of some medical professionals from Nigeria, she highlighted the positive trend of many returning to establish hospitals and clinics in the country.
Dabiri-Erewa urged support for the Women in Health Care Network, recognizing its potential as a catalyst for change. She encouraged the group to compile data on healthcare professionals who have returned to establish medical facilities, emphasizing the importance of quantifying their contributions to the nation’s healthcare system.
Additionally, the NIDCOM boss informed the audience about the commission’s intention to revive the Diaspora Health Care Professional Initiative. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among doctors and healthcare practitioners in the diaspora, pooling resources to make a collective impact.
Notable attendees at the event included Mohammed Pate, the Minister of Health; Modupe Elebute-Odunsi; Zainab Anas, Special Adviser on Health to the President; Toyin Saraki; Jide Idris, former Lagos State Commissioner of Health; and Kemi Owoeye, Special Adviser on Health to the Lagos State Governor.
