News Editor
By Esuene Achibong
The Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON), has called on Government to increase health financing to address mounting health challenges in the country.
This was part of the observations contained in a communique issued at the end of the 58th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the body with the theme, ‘ Sustaining Quality Maternal & Child Health In A Challenging Economy,’ held in Uyo,Akwa Ibom State.
The SOGON communique signed by its President Prof Okechukwu Ikpeze and Secretary General, Prof Azubuike Onyebuchi respectively, said the need for budget increment and judicious utilisation of resources cannot be over emphasized.
The body strongly advised the government at all levels to intensify efforts in the areas of insurance coverage for her citizens in order to cut down out of pocket expenditure, which according to them will help in alleviating suffering in the depressing economy.
According to them, government increase in health budgeting, insurance coverage for the citizens and augmented access to health through enhanced planning and accountability will greatly contribute in creating a healthy society.
SOGON further calls on religious, traditional and other leaders of thought to partner with the government in encouraging mass HPV vaccination campaigns to be accepted amongst adolescent girls, easy access to family planning commodities and obstetric care.
The society stated that it is solidly behind the sector-wide approach of the Federal Ministry of Health in achieving its new health-sector blueprint.
The keynote speaker at the occasion was Prof. Innocent I.O. Ujah,Mni,a renowned Gynaecologist, Teacher and Global Expert, who based his address on the theme “Sustaining Quality Maternal & Child Health in a Challenging Economy”.
He underscored the alarming indices of maternal and child health in low-and-middle income countries especially Nigeria,where it is currently at its lowest level.
Prof.Ujah outlined essential strategies to revert the trend, shedding light on important measures crucial for achieving and sustaining maternal and child health and improving the indices despite the economic difficulties Nigeria currently faces.
Another sub topic of discussion at the event was on “Advancing the African Framework for Cervical cancer elimination in Nigeria: Enhancing Routine HPV Immunization and Defining the next Steps. “, which was a memorial lecture delivered by Professor Chukwudi Dim.
Other side attractions of SOGON ‘s 5 day Programme of activities included the induction of 120 new members, Pre-events advocacy, courtesy visits to Akwa Ibom State Governor and the Paramount ruler of Uyo,HRM Edidem Sylvester Edidem, and dinner.
