…Pledges resilient Healthcare System for Edo Citizens

Dr Andrew Oseghale Eigbedion has formally assumed office as the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Edo State Branch, pledging a leadership anchored on integrity, professionalism, inclusiveness, and evidence-based advocacy.

Dr Eigbedion announced his takeover during his inaugural address at a World Press Conference held at Doctors’ House in Benin City on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Speaking on the theme “Strengthening Partnerships, Investing in Health, and Building a Resilient Healthcare System for Every Edo Citizen”, the newly elected Chairman expressed deep gratitude to his colleagues for the sacred trust reposed in him and his Executive Committee.

In his maiden speech, Dr Eigbedion outlined key priorities for his administration, emphasising that health underpins economic growth, educational attainment, and security.

While commending Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for implementing the Revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and approving long-overdue promotions for stagnated doctors under the Ministry of Health in Edo State, Eigbedion stressed that the administration must urgently give attention to workforce welfare, infrastructure, and safety.

The new Chairman called for the immediate payment of lingering salary arrears spanning between 5-7 months owed to temporary House Officers and recently employed permanent Medical Officers, while addressing critical challenges such as multiple taxation on private health facilities, arbitrary police detentions of Doctors, and the recent Diphtheria outbreak in Edo Central and Edo North Senatorial districts.

Reaffirming that the NMA is a partner in development rather than an opposition body, Dr Eigbedion pledged to collaborate with the Edo State Government, health regulatory agencies, and international development partners to advance Primary Healthcare and achieve Universal Health Coverage.

“Together, we shall build a healthier Edo, save more lives, and secure a brighter future for every citizen,” Dr Eigbedion stated, reaffirming Edo NMA’s loyalty to the National NMA leadership under Dr (Prof.) Afekhide Ernest Omoti.

The other members of the newly elected State Officers Committee of the Edo NMA are Dr Oduware Emmanuel Ehigiegba as Deputy Chairman, Dr William Akerele as Secretary, Dr Ikponmwosa Ehiarinmwian as Deputy Secretary, Dr Henrietta Ugbeni as Treasurer, Dr Iguehi Ofotokun as Financial Secretary, Dr Uaboi Ovbiagele as Internal Auditor while Dr Eustace Oseghale and Dr Iluobe Inegbenosun will serve as Ex-Officio 1 and Ex-Officio 2 respectively.

Dr Andrew Eigbedion emphasized that the motto for his Administration is *Leading Edo Doctors, serving Edo people*