ANPMP Edo Central Zone Hosts 2026 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference
The Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP), Edo Central Zone, successfully conducted its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM), Scientific Conference, and Award Night on Thursday in Ekpoma, Edo State. This significant event, held at the Gold Royal Event Centre in Ebhoakhuala, gathered a diverse array of stakeholders from the healthcare sector to discuss critical issues and celebrate excellence.
Key Stakeholders and Dignitaries in Attendance
The gathering attracted government officials, medical practitioners from both private and public institutions, security personnel, traditional rulers, and students from health-related fields. Notable dignitaries included Captain Ifeanyi Nwokeji, Commander of the Army Base in Ekpoma; CSP Akanbi Ezekiel, Divisional Police Officer of Ewu Police Station; and representatives from the Esan West Local Government Council.
Addresses and Calls for Collaboration
In his welcome address, Dr Andrew Oseghale Eigbedion, Zonal Chairman of ANPMP and Chief Convener, commended participants for their turnout and reiterated the commitment of private practitioners to delivering quality healthcare in the Edo Central Senatorial District. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between government and private healthcare providers, noting that over 70 percent of healthcare consultations in Nigeria occur within the private sector. Dr Eigbedion also advocated for increased funding that includes private institutions and praised Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his developmental efforts.
Legislative and Regulatory Insights
Hon. Dr Richard Osaro Edosa, Chairman of the occasion and Deputy Chief Whip of the Edo State House of Assembly, highlighted the role of legislation in strengthening the health system. He pointed out that the establishment of the Edo State Health Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA) aims to improve standards and ensure quality healthcare delivery. Representing the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, Dr Alari Edosa acknowledged challenges faced by private practitioners, such as rising operational costs and regulatory pressures, while praising their resilience during public health emergencies.
National Perspectives and Concerns
Dr Kay Adesola, ANPMP President, represented by Dr Godfrey Imuetinyan, Edo State Chairman, described the Edo Central Zone as one of the most active chapters in the country. Dr Imuetinyan raised concerns over multiple taxation affecting practitioners and expressed optimism that regulatory reforms would address this issue. Goodwill messages were also delivered by Dr Eustace Oseghale, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Edo State Branch, and Prof. Reuben Agbons Eifediyi, Chief Medical Director of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, represented by Dr Williams Akerele, emphasizing the critical role of private healthcare providers and the need for efficient referral systems.
Scientific Conference and Award Ceremony
The scientific conference featured presentations by Associate Professor Wilson Ovienria on common eye conditions and preventable blindness, and Dr Henrietta Ugbeni on strategies to reduce neonatal mortality through timely interventions. A highlight of the event was the conferment of honors on distinguished practitioners, including a posthumous Distinguished Service Award to the late Dr Prince Ehizojie Ojesebholo. Other recipients included Dr Frank Odafen, Dr Teddy Abdullahi Ikhuoriah, Dr Charles Uhioh, Dr Godfrey Imuetinyan, Dr Enaholo Festy Odimo Udegbe, Dr Festus Aisabokhale, and Dr Francis Ufuah.
Cultural Celebrations and Conclusion
The event concluded with cultural performances, a ceremonial cake cutting, and entertainment, featuring a saxophone performance by a medical student, bringing the gathering to a celebratory close. This comprehensive gathering underscored the importance of private medical practice in Nigeria's healthcare landscape and fostered dialogue on improving service delivery and regulatory frameworks.
