Nigerian Doctor, Otabor, Wins African Medical Practice Award

Dr. Christopher Otabor, the Chief Medical Director at Alliance Hospital, has been honored with the African Medical Practice and Leadership Award for his outstanding contributions to the healthcare industry in Nigeria.

Recognized for his unwavering commitment to reducing medical tourism by providing top-tier medical services locally, Dr. Otabor has helped save the country significant sums of money each year.

During his acknowledgement speech, he expressed sincere appreciation and pride, underscoring Alliance Hospital’s dedication to delivering comprehensive care by investing substantially in cutting-edge technology, skilled personnel, and a conducive medical environment.

Dr. Otabor highlighted the importance of keeping patients within the country, as Nigeria reportedly expends a considerable amount on overseas medical treatments annually for issues that could be effectively managed domestically.

He stressed the crucial necessity for enhanced investments in healthcare infrastructure, retention of healthcare professionals, and cultivation of a patient-centered approach within the medical field.

Furthermore, he envisions a future where Nigerians have access to world-class healthcare services locally, heralding a significant advancement in the nation’s healthcare landscape.

Dr. Otabor’s initiatives have bolstered the local capacity to handle intricate medical cases that were traditionally outsourced, leading to substantial cost savings for Nigeria. His steadfast dedication serves as a noteworthy model for sustainable advancement in the healthcare sector.

The prestigious African Leadership Award celebrates Dr. Otabor’s transformative influence, inspiring continued investment and commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system.

To further advance healthcare standards in the country, Dr. Otabor emphasizes the importance of enhanced collaboration between the government and private healthcare entities.

“Private hospitals treat 70 𝚙𝚎𝚛 𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝 of patients in Nigeria, yet the government often competes with rather than supports us,” he noted. “This needs to change.”

He further elaborated that private healthcare providers in Nigeria face numerous challenges, including high taxation and limited support.

“In India, where 98 𝚙𝚎𝚛 𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝 of Nigerians seek treatment, patients go to private hospitals because their government supports them with funding, loans, and tax holidays. We need similar support here.”

Highlighting the importance of investment in healthcare, he urged wealthy Nigerians to consider setting up foundations and investing in the healthcare sector. “Investing in healthcare saves lives, and it could be your life,” he mentioned.

Otabor further discussed the financial pressures on private healthcare providers, citing a recent increase in equipment costs and rising loan interest rates. “We cannot transfer all the costs to patients; they simply won’t be able to afford it.”

Dr. Otabor, a dedicated Nigerian doctor, urged the government to recognize and support the sacrifices of healthcare professionals who are working tirelessly to improve the country’s healthcare system.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, represented by Emmanuel Odu, emphasized the importance of recognition and reward in motivating individuals to achieve more.

He commended the organizers for honoring outstanding individuals and acknowledged the key pillars of the health sector, including governance, population health, and health security.

The Minister also expressed gratitude for the productive partnership between the health sector and the education sector, which has produced highly respected Nigerian doctors globally.

The Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Health Sciences, Professor Innocent Ujah, delivered a keynote speech highlighting the importance of collaboration and recognition in the health sector. “Renewing Hope in Health Governance and Leadership in Nigeria”

Professor Innocent Ujah emphasized the urgent need for transformation in Nigeria’s healthcare system, which is plagued by numerous challenges.

These include inadequate funding, brain drain, insecurity, and poor healthcare infrastructure. Effective governance and leadership are crucial in addressing these challenges, he stressed.

While commending the Federal Government’s efforts to improve tertiary health facilities, Ujah noted that more needs to be done to enhance healthcare delivery at the primary and secondary levels.

He also highlighted the need for increased domestic funding, expansion of primary healthcare services, and financial protection for the poor and vulnerable.

To achieve improved healthcare delivery in Nigeria, Ujah emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership with the private sector and international organizations.