Get Guardian on GoogleThe newly inaugurated President of the Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku, has pledged to strengthen medical research, promote health education and expand the Academy’s partnerships during his two-year tenure.
Ahaneku, who is a renowned consultant chemical pathologist and current Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology, made the pledge in his acceptance speech at his investiture, where he outlined his vision for advancing the Academy’s activities and consolidating the achievements of previous administrations.
Describing the Academy as a family of patriotic medical researchers committed to improving healthcare, he said: “The Academy, in my opinion, is a family of tested and trusted, patriotic medical researchers and enthusiasts who are committed to the promotion of medical research, health education and wellness of Nigerians in particular and humanity in general.”
He said his administration would adopt horizontal and vertical relationship strategies to strengthen internal participation and external partnerships.
On members’ participation, Ahaneku urged fellows to contribute their time, skills and expertise to the Academy’s activities.
“The Academy is not just made up of the officers of the sections or members of the Executive Council or Board of Trustees,” he said, adding that “a vibrant Academy can only happen if there is an unwavering commitment from her members.”
He also announced plans to expand the Academy’s visibility and impact across universities, tertiary health institutions and research institutes in Nigeria.
According to him, the various sections would be encouraged to appoint advocacy and mobilisation officers to attract younger professionals into the Academy.
Ahaneku expressed concern about the age profile of its membership, noting that the average age of fellows was approximately 65 years.
“This is to avoid being labelled Academy for the elderly or age-related fatigue in the activities of the Academy,” he said.
On external partnerships, the new president promised stronger engagement with government ministries, agencies, development partners and private sector organisations.
He specifically identified the Nigeria LNG (NLNG), Association of Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine (ADLM), European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) and Nigeria Governors’ Forum as key partners whose relationships with the Academy would be strengthened.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Academy, Dr. Sonny Kuku, charged the new president to uphold excellence, unity and service, noting that the Board of Trustees has absolute confidence in his capacity to lead the academy to greater heights.
He also congratulated the appointment of Deacon O. K Belo as the Academy Patron, commending him for his impact and generosity towards the academy.
The Academy also conferred its fellowship on 12 professors and one PhD holder who have distinguished themselves in various fields of medical sciences across the country. It also awarded its Gold Medal to Prof. Okechukwu Ogah, a professor of Cardiology, Consultant Physician/Cardiologist at UCH Ibadan. Prof. Ogah received a N10 million cash prize alongside a medal.
