Vice President Kashim Shettima has made clear the Federal Government’s dedication to advancing healthcare services across Nigeria, with a particular focus on rural communities.
During a meeting with a delegation from the West African College of Physicians (WACP), he acknowledged the vital contributions of medical professionals within Nigeria’s healthcare framework and pledged government support for retaining skilled healthcare workers in the nation.
VP Shettima praised healthcare workers for their unwavering commitment to the country, despite the numerous challenges they face. “Your profession is indeed noble, and while many young professionals are choosing to leave the country, you have chosen to stay. This decision stems from a sense of moral duty to serve your homeland,” he remarked.
He assured the visiting delegation that the government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, is determined to tackle existing healthcare issues. He pointed out the appointment of Professor Muhammadu Ali Pate as the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, emphasizing Pate’s extensive knowledge of the healthcare sector.
“We will treat members of our professional bodies with the dignity they deserve and create an environment that allows you to thrive in Nigeria,” the Vice President promised.
Reflecting on his previous initiatives to promote healthcare education in Borno State, Shettima shared, “As the governor of Borno State in 2014, I took it upon myself to sponsor female students to study Medicine and Surgery in Sudan. They have since graduated and received their licenses from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to practice medicine here, and they are now employed by the state government.”
He stressed the government’s moral duty to assist its citizens, declaring, “We have a responsibility to support our people. In due time, we will have reasons to celebrate, and we will continue to stand by you.”
