FIC Report (Edo State) – The Federal Ministry Of Health (FMoH), in partnership with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), officially launched the NIDCOM Diaspora Medical Health Impact Initiative in Edo State. The event underscores the nation’s commitment to leveraging the expertise of Nigerian medical Professionals Abroad to address critical health care challenges, especially in reproductive health.
The Initiative, which was unveiled at the Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI) on Monday July 20th, 2026 at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), aims to harness the skills of Nigerian healthcare practitioners living outside the country to improve health outcomes within Nigeria, with a particular focus on women’s health issues such as endometriosis and reproductive conditions.
Speaking at the launch, Prof. Afekhide Ernest Omoti, President of the Nigerian Medical Association, emphasized the importance of International collaboration and Diaspora participation in strengthening Nigeria’s Healthcare Infrastructure. “This initiative is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to utilizing global medical expertise to tackle local health challenges. It is a step towards ensuring that quality healthcare services reach every woman in our Communities,” he stated.
The program’s highlight is the “Endometriosis Ultrasound National Capacity Building Program,” a specialized training aimed at empowering Gynecologists, Radiologists, Sonographers, and Reproductive Health Practitioners. By enhancing diagnostic and treatment capabilities, the initiative seeks to improve the management of endometriosis—a common but often underdiagnosed reproductive disorder affecting many women in Nigeria.
International medical professionals, including Dr. Uche Menakaya, a renowned gynecologist and endoscopic surgeon from Australia; Prof. Francesco Cedne of the University of Milan, Italy; Prof. Ligita Jokubkiene from Lund University, Sweden; and Juliet Menakaya from Australia, are part of the training team. Their participation exemplifies Nigeria’s drive to foster global medical partnerships and bring cutting-edge practices into the local healthcare system.
The Collaboration underscores the Federal Government’s broader strategy to address Health Care disparities by tapping into the diaspora’s talent pool. It also aligns with Nigeria’s vision of building a resilient healthcare system capable of providing accessible, high-quality care to its Citizens.
Local and International Stakeholders expressed optimism that this initiative would not only improve women’s reproductive health but also serve as a model for similar programs nationwide. The Government’s focus on Women’s ’s health, particularly through capacity building and international expertise, reflects a commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Nigerian Women and promoting Gender-sensitive healthcare policies.
As the program progresses, it is expected to catalyze further Diaspora engagement, foster innovation in healthcare delivery, and ultimately contribute to Nigeria’s goal of achieving better health outcomes for all its citizens.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO FIC, Benin
July 20th, 2026.
