Lagos, Nigeria – The Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, H.E Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, has commissioned a state-of-the-art hall for Traditional Medicine Practitioners at the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) Headquarters in Lagos. The 150-seater capacity ultra-modern facility aims to bolster the advancement and recognition of traditional medicine practices in the country.
The commissioning ceremony took place today May 18, 2023 and was attended by esteemed guests, including traditional medicine practitioners, government officials, and representatives from the health sector. Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, in his opening address, emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting and harnessing the potentials of traditional medicine for the benefit of all Nigerians.
The newly inaugurated hall is equipped with modern amenities, including comfortable seating arrangements, audiovisual systems, and advanced conference facilities. The purpose-built space is designed to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, research findings, and training programs for traditional medicine practitioners across Nigeria. It will serve as a hub for workshops, seminars, and conferences, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.
In his keynote speech, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu highlighted the importance of traditional medicine in Nigeria’s healthcare system, acknowledging its historical significance and potential to contribute to the overall well-being of the population. He praised the efforts of traditional medicine practitioners and assured them of the government’s unwavering support in harnessing their expertise for national development.
The Minister further stressed the need for collaboration between modern medicine and traditional medicine, emphasizing that both systems could coexist harmoniously to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for Nigerians. He called on practitioners from both domains to explore avenues for synergy and mutual understanding to enhance the overall healthcare delivery in the country.
The establishment of the ultra-modern hall for Traditional Medicine Practitioners is a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to integrate traditional medicine practices into the national healthcare framework. By providing a dedicated space for knowledge sharing and capacity building, the government aims to elevate the status of traditional medicine, ensuring its inclusion in the country’s healthcare policies and programs.
As Nigeria strives to achieve universal healthcare coverage and enhance healthcare accessibility, the collaboration between traditional medicine practitioners and the government is crucial. The commissioning of the new hall serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to harnessing the potentials of traditional medicine and recognizing its role in the nation’s healthcare sector.
With the establishment of this cutting-edge facility, traditional medicine practitioners in Nigeria can look forward to a brighter future, characterized by increased recognition, collaboration, and improved healthcare outcomes for all Nigerians.
