Emeka Stanley Obi Leads His Team to Host the 42nd NiMSA General Assembly/Scientific Conference
The Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), a pioneering state-owned institution in Anambra State, Nigeria recently hosted the 42nd General Assembly and Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Medical Students' Association (NiMSA), an affiliate of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
Spearheaded by Emeka Stanley Obi, the Host President and Convener, the landmark event drew over 600 participants from across the federation.
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Emeka Stanley Obi Leads His Team to Host the 42nd NiMSA General Assembly/Scientific Conference
Emeka Stanley Obi Leads His Team to Host the 42nd NiMSA General Assembly/Scientific Conference
The conference, themed “New Horizons and Frontiers: The World Beyond Medicine”, cemented COOUTH’s reputation as a hub for academic excellence, public health advocacy, and professional development.
Commending COOUTH during the opening ceremony, Obi said, "Hosting this event here is a testament to COOUTH’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
The infrastructure, mentorship, and opportunities provided by the institution have significantly enhanced the professional development of its students and graduates." His leadership and vision set the tone for an event designed to empower participants with the tools and insights needed to reimagine healthcare, with public health as a critical focus.
The four-day conference which held from November 28, 2019 to December 1, 2019 featured transformative sessions, from cutting-edge research presentations to hands-on workshops aimed at equipping medical students with advanced skills necessary for addressing Nigeria’s pressing healthcare challenges. Public health emerged as a core theme, with discussions emphasizing the role of preventive medicine, health promotion, and policy reforms in improving the lives of millions across the country.
Emeritus Professor of Surgery, Prof. Frank Akpuaka, Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and founding Provost of COOUTH, praised the conference's significance. "This event is a testament to COOUTH's dedication to nurturing the next generation of medical leaders. Hosting this conference reaffirms our institution’s standing as a pioneer in medical education and research," he remarked. Prof. Akpuaka underscored the importance of public health innovation and collaborative efforts in combating non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and healthcare inequities.
The conference also welcomed Dr. Muonago, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), who, during one of the sessions, remarked, "The future of Nigeria's healthcare lies in the hands of these bright minds. Public health must be a cornerstone of their work. Events like this foster the critical thinking and collaboration we need to address our nation’s unique health challenges."
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the COOUTH Health Initiative, a comprehensive program aimed at improving healthcare delivery in underserved communities, with a strong emphasis on public health interventions. Championed by Emeka Stanley Obi, this initiative focuses on training healthcare professionals, promoting health education, and fostering innovation in public health research. Obi’s leadership in launching this initiative has positioned him for even greater accomplishments in advancing public health in Nigeria.
In addition, Emeka Stanley Obi was honored with the prestigious NiMSA Scientific Leadership Award of Excellence. This national honor, conferred to only two exceptional individuals each year, recognizes those who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary leadership and community advocacy. Obi’s receipt of this coveted award underscores his commitment to transformative leadership and his impactful contributions to public health and the medical community.
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In line with the theme “New Horizons and Frontiers: The World Beyond Medicine”, the conference challenged participants to look beyond clinical practice and embrace public health as a broader avenue to impact lives. Workshops on topics like artificial intelligence in public health, strategies for combating non-communicable diseases, and mental health advocacy provided participants with valuable insights into shaping a healthier future for Nigeria.
The event wasn’t solely academic—it also featured enriching extracurricular activities. A Health Fair commemorating the 2018 World AIDS Day offered free screenings and health education, reinforcing the delegates’ commitment to public health advocacy. Delegates also enjoyed excursions to historical sites, including the Ogbunike Caves, and a visit to the Government House, where they met State Governor Willie Obiano, who commended their efforts in advancing healthcare and education in the state.
The Scientific Conference provided a platform for participants from all 36 states to present their research, which was evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges. Topics ranged from innovative approaches to combating cardiovascular diseases to advancements in tropical disease management, showcasing the intellectual and innovative capacities of Nigeria’s future healthcare professionals.
Special commendation for the conference’s organization came from Dr. Foster Ihejiofor, MD/CEO of Graphil Group, a distinguished medical entrepreneur. "The level of dedication, attention to detail, and excellence displayed here is unparalleled. COOUTH and NiMSA have truly outdone themselves, creating a transformative experience for these young minds," Dr. Ihejiofor remarked.
The Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) provided extensive media coverage of the event, amplifying its significance and COOUTH’s achievements to a wider audience.
The conference concluded with a resolution to strengthen public health systems and improve healthcare delivery in underserved areas, aligning with NiMSA’s mission to bridge gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Many participants left the event inspired, better equipped, and motivated to contribute meaningfully to the medical field, with public health as a core focus of their efforts.
As COOUTH continues its journey toward global recognition, its legacy in nurturing healthcare leaders remains evident. Hosting the 42nd NiMSA General Assembly and Scientific Conference marks a pivotal step in the institution’s quest to redefine excellence in healthcare education and public health advocacy. Meanwhile, Emeka Stanley Obi’s exemplary leadership and receipt of the NiMSA Scientific Leadership Award of Excellence serve as a testament to the transformative impact of visionary individuals in shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
Source: Legit.ng
