NMA South-south Games: Zonal head hailed A’Ibom, Delta States govt for support and Nigerian doctors oversight of COVID19
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) South-south Zonal Chairman, Dr Emmanuel Nwose has lauded the efforts of the Akwa Ibom State government and its Delta State counterparts for their support so far in hosting the association regional games.
Dr Nwose remarked during the opening ceremony of the South-south games at Tower of Ivory School sports complex, Abak.
“Funding is a very big challenge as well as insecurity but some States government are trying in areas of support. Notable are Akwa Ibom State and Delta. However, we call on corporate bodies to support the NMA games for a better experience.”
According to the NMA zonal boss, the games are hosted as part of the zone reparations for the NMA National Games in Abuja next month as well as offer opportunities for doctors to socialize.
“It’s hosted to showcase the other side of doctors. The doctor is not just for clinical services. They are multi-talented. The other reason of the games is to keep the doctors fit for service to the society.”
On the current state of the COVID-19 control in the country, Dr Nwose commended Nigeria’s efforts, especially health workers at curtailing the pandemic despite lean technology and funding.
“If you have been listening to what is happening in the USA, Britain and France, you can believe we have done very well and God has blessed us with favourable nature.”
The games opening ceremony was attended by DIG Udom Ekpoudom (Rtd.), governor of Tower of Ivory School, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Augustine Umoh, Bayelsa State Health Commissioner, Dr Pabara Newton and Commissioner for Special Duties, Bayelsa, Dr Churson Obosi.
Also from Bayelsa are, Dr Peter Singabele, Chairman Bayelsa State Civil Service and former Health Commissioner, Dr Ayibapreye Barakatei, a Chief Consultant Radiologist.
The event roll call likewise had the presence of the match Commissioner, Prof. Aniefiok Umoiyoho, O&G, UUTH, Permanent Secretary Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health, Dr Patrick Eshiet and all NMA Chairmen of six participating States- Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers.
Professor Augustine Umoh took the kickoff during the first football match between Edo and Rivers State. Doctors from Edo defeated Rivers team by 1-0.
The first medal event was basketball where team Akwa Ibom female defeated team Rivers to clinch the gold.
In the volleyball event, Cross River State male doctors defeated Bayelsa 2-0 while Akwa Ibom female lost to Bayelsa 0-2 in the 3rd place match.
The NMA South-South sporting events continue till Saturday at Tower of Ivory School, Doctors Mess and Uyo Sports Club.
