Tinubu urges West African doctors to prevent Ebola
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Leadership
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called on West African doctors to develop preventive measures against Ebola and sustainable responses to health challenges. At a ceremony in Abuja, he also asked the West African College of Physicians to address the exodus of health professionals, according to a statement from his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called on West African doctors to develop practical and sustainable solutions to emerging health problems, including Ebola, and to prioritise prevention. He was speaking on Wednesday 22 October at the State House in Abuja, after receiving a Fellowship of the West African College of Physicians (WACP), according to his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
Bola Tinubu asked the college’s leadership to devote its next conference to the exodus of health professionals, which is increasing pressure on health systems and reducing access to essential care in the sub-region. He also promised to continue reforms aimed at making healthcare more accessible, affordable and effective in Nigeria, while praising the work of the coordinating minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate.
The WACP described the distinction as recognition of the Nigerian president’s commitment to health reforms and medical development. Its president, Mamadou Mourtala Ka, said the title was reserved for presidents who had made a significant contribution to healthcare in West Africa.
The call comes a day after the publication of a call for stronger prevention measures in Kwara, on 23 October, and after discussions on funds to combat Ebola, following the Nigerian APC’s declaration on 22 October that Tinubu’s 10 billion naira anti-Ebola funds remained intact.
