Nothing will work without leadership, says FMOH

The Minister for Health, Prof. Isaac F. Adewole has said without leadership, "nothing will work." Speaking at a one-day leadership retreat for chief executives of tertiary health institutions organised by Nigerian Medical Association held in Abuja, he said, "Nobody rises above the mission of the leadership, so it is important that we take this serious […]

The Minister for Health, Prof. Isaac F. Adewole has said without leadership, "nothing will work."

Speaking at a one-day leadership retreat for chief executives of tertiary health institutions organised by Nigerian Medical Association held in Abuja, he said, "Nobody rises above the mission of the leadership, so it is important that we take this serious not only internally but externally."

Adewole urged  NMA to advocate for increased resources, change in behaviour and the institutionalisation of caring, patients-centred responsive healthcare system amongst other things.

Also speaking, president of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Mike Ogirima said the major challenge crippling the leadership of the health sector, is poor funding.

"If a leader is not well funded how is he going to carry out the government programmes and policies, coupled with dwindling infrastructure, and a lot of intra professional rivalry in the health sector," he said.

Ogirima stated that the ultimate goal of any health worker should be the welfare of the patient, adding, "So as we continue to fight amongst ourselves on who leads, our patients are suffering."

To overhaul the health sector to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria, Prof. Sani B. Gaiko, President of Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria said,  "My view may sound radical but,  I think if the government feels  we (leaders) are not doing enough, we all should be sacked and reengaged on merit."