NEWS
DUMSAA Set to Host Inaugural Seminars to Enhance Membership Development
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Delta State University Medical Students’ Alumni Association (DUMSAA) has concluded plans to launch a series of seminars as part of its dedication to enhance membership development.
Dr. Kennedy Oberhiri Obohwemu, the Interim Board Chair of DUMSAA, who disclosed this to journalists in a press statement, said the seminar would hold Online via Google Meet.
Dr Obohwemu said the inaugural seminar is slated for April 1st, 2024, which would feature Prof. Gabriel Igberase as the esteemed Guest Speaker, who will speak on the theme: “Building Bridges, Connecting Alumni for Lasting Impact”.
According to Obohwemu, the initiative is aimed at fostering a dynamic platform for alumni engagement and collaboration.
“By connecting our esteemed alumni, we seek to harness collective expertise, inspire innovations, and cultivate a culture of lifelong learning within our medical community,” he said.
He described Prof. Igberase as a distinguished figure in the medical community with a wealth of experience and accolades, who has expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the commendable initiative.
He stressed that the seminar featuring Prof. Igberase, would be an enlightening and inspiring event, fostering connections among alumni and empowering individuals to make a lasting impact in the field of medicine.
Dr Obohwemu, therefore encouraged all the members of DUMSAA both home and in diaspora to take advantage of the rare opportunity to ensure their full participation in the seminars to build their professional capacity.
“Prof. Gabriel Igberase (MBBS, MPH, FWACS, FMCOG, FICS, LMCC, CCFP) was born on March 26, 1968, in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria. His passion for medicine took root early in life, inspired by his mother’s work as a midwife.
“He graduated from the University of Benin Medical School in 1990, did his housemanship at the UBTH, and then proceeded for his NYSC in Ideato North LGA, where he served as a Corps Liaison Officer.
“Upon completion of his NYSC in 1993, he worked as a medical officer at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital as a pioneer staff.
“After graduating from the University of Benin Medical School in 1990, Prof. Igberase embarked on a journey marked by diverse experiences.
“He commenced his professional career with housemanship at the UBTH, where he served as a medical officer at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, playing a pivotal role as a pioneer staff member.
“Prof. Igberase further honed his skills through roles as a Registrar in Hematology and Blood Transfusion at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
“His pursuit of excellence led him to residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, culminating in success in the West African and national exams,” he said.
He added: “Between 2003 and 2005, Prof. Igberase enriched his expertise with a brief tenure at the Baptist Hospital Eku, focusing on surgical and research endeavors.
“In 2007, he joined Delsu as a lecturer in obstetrics and gynecology, eventually ascending to the esteemed position of professor in 2016.
“In 2021, driven by familial commitments, Prof. Igberase took a leave of absence without pay to relocate to Canada, where he retired in 2022. In spite his transition, his passion for medicine and mentorship remains unwavering.
“Beyond his professional pursuits, Prof. Igberase finds joy in traveling, singing, photography, and writing.
“His research interests encompass fetal and maternal medicine, infertility, and public health, reflecting a commitment to advancing medical knowledge and healthcare outcomes.
“As the CEO of Shepherd Hospital and fertility centers in Warri and Benin, Prof. Igberase exemplifies dedication to healthcare provision.
“His contributions to academia are notable, evidenced by his prolific publication record and groundbreaking research on maternal mortality in the Niger Delta.
“A firm believer in the power of hard work and divine grace, Prof. Igberase is renowned for his mentorship and encouragement of aspiring medical professionals.
“He continues to inspire the next generation of doctors to pursue their passions fearlessly.
“Currently practicing as a certified family Physician in Nova Scotia, Canada, Prof. Igberase’s legacy extends globally.
“He is happily married with four sons, embodying the values of dedication, compassion, and family.
President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Sector-wide Coordinating Office-Programme Management Unit (SCO-PMU) domiciled in the Office of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.A statement on Friday by his spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, said the unit would ensure efficient, transparent and accountable management of external grants mobilised towards the implementation of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII).
Ngelale said SCO-PMU would report to a Steering Committee/Ministerial Oversight Committee chaired by the Minister, including the Minister of State, Permanent Secretary; Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and relevant development partners. “The SCO-PMU will serve as the secretariat and delivery unit for the NHSRII and is to be headed by a national coordinator (NC).“The functions of the SCO-PMU include programme management, monitoring and evaluation, engagement and supervision of Independent Verification Agents (IVAs) for NHSRII programmes and fiduciary management, among others.“Consequently, the President has approved the appointment of Dr. Muntaqa Umar Sadiq as the National Coordinator of SCO-PMU,” he said.Report says that Sadiq has over 17 years of experience in public health, impact investing, investment banking, energy, and climate financing across the health, finance, climate and energy sectors.He had served as Head of the Performance Management and Delivery Unit at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Chief Executive Officer of the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria.He also served as Head of the Nigeria Energy Transition Office and Private Sector Engagement Adviser at the World Bank. (NAN)
The Federal Government says it has no plan to slash scholarship students’ allowances as recently projected in the media.The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, stated this during a meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Abuja on Friday.
Report says that there was a report that the ministry, through the Federal Scholarship Board, announced a slash in allowances of foreign scholars stranded in Russia, Morocco, and Algeria among others.
The slash in scholars’ allowances under the federal government’s Bilateral Educational Agreement Scholarship (BEA) was attributed to the economic crises.Mamman said that there was no slash in scholars` allowances but rather an adjustment due to Foreign Exchange fluctuations (FOREX).“We want to clarify what has been in the media on allowances paid to scholars under the Bilateral Scholarship Agreement.“We want to place it on record that the ministry and the Federal Government for that matter have not slashed the allowances due to students.“What happened is some adjustments in the amount due to them because of FOREX fluctuations, and as soon as we get the balance we have applied for, we will pay them.“But for now, what is in the budget is what we can pay. So, there is no slash, we will even be happy to increase, so this is what has led to the adjustments,” he said.(NAN)
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, on Friday, has urged Nigerians to calm and patient with Federal Government and should give the the government more time to address these pressing concerns.In a statement issued by CAN and signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh ,President, CAN and made available to journalists in Abuja.
CAN also urged all Nigerians to consider alternative means of expressing their grievances. He however said CAN stands in solidarity with the citizens of nation during these challenging times of economic hardship and pervasive hunger. The statement reads in part, “As we navigate this period of crisis, it is imperative to uphold the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to peacefully protest and express their grievances. The right to assemble and voice discontent is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be protected and respected by all. Peaceful protests are a powerful tool for civic engagement, allowing the populace to communicate their concerns and hold leaders accountable. However, the anxiety related to the impending protests is heightening, especially given the volatile experiences in countries like Kenya and Pakistan.”We must also draw from our recent history. The #ENDSARS and #RevolutionNow protests, though rooted in genuine grievances, were marred by tragic incidents where miscreants hijacked the process. This led to widespread looting, destruction of properties, and unfortunate loss of lives. These experiences have shown us that mass demonstrations can quickly degenerate into chaos if not properly managed and coordinated.” In light of the planned protests scheduled to commence on 1st of August, CAN urges all Nigerians to consider alternative means of expressing their grievances. We recommend giving the government more time to address these pressing concerns. This period should be used to explore other legal avenues that will not easily give hoodlums the opportunity to hijack the exercise to destroy our national assets or endanger lives and properties. Dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings are viable options that can yield positive results without the risk of disorder.”We call on the government to cut the cost of governance and expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the land. The opulent lifestyle of political office holders must be addressed to demonstrate the sincerity of those in government to improve the living conditions of the people. Likewise, it is imperative that the government implements the newly approved national minimum wage to provide immediate relief to struggling families.”Furthermore, specific measures must be taken to put an end to kidnappings, banditry, and mass killings that have plagued various parts of our country. The security and well-being of every Nigerian should be paramount, and urgent action is required to restore peace and order.”We also call on the government to expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the land. There is an urgent need for more refined and effective policies that address the root causes of the economic challenges we face. The government must deepen its consultations with stakeholders, including religious leaders, to create a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to problem-solving. By working together, we can devise sustainable solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people.”In these trying times, let us all remember the words of our Lord Jesus Christ: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). As we seek to bring about positive change, let us do so with a spirit of peace, love, and unity. Our strength lies in our ability to come together, support one another, and work collectively toward a better Nigeria.”We pray for wisdom and discernment for our leaders, resilience and hope for our citizens, and divine intervention to guide us through these difficult times”.
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