The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Edo State Branch, recently hosted its 2025 Leadership Retreat, bringing together senior figures from various medical unions and affiliates across the state. The two-day event, held at the ceremonial hall of the Doctor’s House in Benin City from 20 to 21 May, was themed “Developing a Transparency and Accountability Framework for Edo NMA: Earning, Building and Retaining Trust.”

Dr. Simeone Dawodu, former Chief Medical Director of the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, delivered the keynote address, setting the tone for a retreat focused on improving leadership standards, financial integrity, and stakeholder confidence within the medical profession.

One of the highlights of the retreat was a lecture by Dr. Andrew Eigbedion, titled “Exploring Alternative Revenue Streams for Medical Unions.” In his presentation, Dr. Eigbedion urged medical bodies to diversify their income sources beyond the conventional reliance on members’ monthly dues. He proposed a multi-faceted approach that includes hosting more educational events, forming strategic partnerships with professional associations, collaborating with local employers for staff health screenings, and organising certification-based training programmes.

He further recommended expanding the publication and reach of the Edo NMA Journal, establishing expert-led mastermind groups, offering consultancy services, and engaging in brand merchandising. Additionally, Dr. Eigbedion suggested that the Edo State Ministry of Health remit a portion of annual taxes or levies collected from healthcare institutions to the Edo NMA as a form of royalty. He argued that this aligns with international best practices, citing the American Medical Association’s similar arrangement with the U.S. Department of Health.

The retreat featured a host of notable medical figures, including Professor Darlington Obaseki, Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH); Professor Reuben Eifediyi of Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH); Professor Dominic Osaghae, a former National President of the NMA; and Dr. Osahon Enabulele, immediate past President of the World Medical Association.

Others in attendance included Dr. Philip Ugbodaga and Dr. Emmanuel Osaigbovo, both past Edo NMA Chairmen; Professor Sylvanus Okogbenin, former CMD of ISTH; Dr. Austin Okogun, Medical Director of Lily Hospitals; Dr. Sunny Eyanru, a digital health expert; and Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr. Margaret Oyakhire.

The retreat was chaired by Professor Dr. Med Philip Abiodun, Chairman of the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standard Committee.

In recognition of his impactful contribution, Dr. Eigbedion was honoured with the 2025 Leadership Retreat Distinguished Speaker Award, presented by Dr. Irene Akhideno, Chairperson of the Edo State Medical Women Association, on behalf of the Edo NMA.