The Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP) convened its Annual General Meeting in Edo Central Zone on April 8, 2025, with a pompous, purposeful ceremony and a bold push for reform.
The summit, which was held at the Gold Royal Event Centre in Ebhoakhuala, Ekpoma, brought together state and international health officials with experts in the private healthcare industry. They all shared the goal of improving healthcare service in Edo State.
With 45 participants—36 in person and 9 virtually—the event demonstrated the growing organizational power and influence of private medical professionals in the area.
Distinguished guests included Dr. Kayode Adesola, the National President of the ANPMP; Dr. Frank Odafen, the former National President and former Pro-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University; Dr. Godfrey Imuetinyan, the Chairman of the Edo State ANPMP; and stalwarts like Dr. Festus Aisabokhale, Dr. Joseph Ikheloa, and Dr. Osita Nwokike.
The World Health Organization, the Edo State Disease Epidemiology Division, the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, and the Institute of Lassa Fever and Research Centre at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital were among the other attendees, highlighting the value of private-public partnerships in tackling health issues.
In his welcome address, Dr. Andrew Eigbedion, the chairman of the Edo Central ANPMP Zonal, described the accomplishments of his administration over the past year, emphasizing the expansion of immunization access, the provision of high-quality surgical and medical services throughout the region, and the reduction of morbidity and mortality rates.
He also criticized the burden of multiple taxes imposed on private practitioners by various government agencies and urged the Edo State Government to implement tax breaks for association members.
“Our members play a critical role in ensuring healthcare reaches underserved communities. It is only fair that government policies reflect our contribution through supportive tax frameworks,” Dr Eigbedion said.
In a goodwill message, National President Dr Kayode Adesola lauded the Edo Central Chapter for boosting the visibility of the ANPMP through sustained activity.
He shared updates on the long-awaited increase in capitation and fee-for-service tariffs under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), attributing the milestone to the advocacy efforts of the national executive. The new tariffs, the first adjustment in 13 years, are set for implementation in April.
“This achievement stands on the shoulders of many years of advocacy,” Dr Adesola said. “But it is not enough—we must ensure regular reviews that reflect current economic realities.”
The association’s Edo State Chairman, Dr. Godfrey Imuetinyan, praised the Edo Central leadership’s efforts and reiterated the request for tax reforms.
In order to eradicate quackery from the healthcare system, he further mentioned continued partnerships with the Edo State Ministry of Health. Three important talks on workplace ethics and disease surveillance were presented during the meeting’s scientific session.
An overview of Lassa Fever in Nigeria was given by Dr. Osas Edeawe of the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, who also introduced a new management algorithm for early detection and treatment. He exhorted professionals to use the tactic in their clinical settings.
The Edo State Disease Epidemiologist, Dr. Blessing Aideyan, warned of ongoing underdiagnosis after reporting 44 confirmed Lassa Fever cases and seven fatalities in Edo Central since December 2024.
She reminded practitioners that PCR testing for Lassa virus is still free at the Irrua Institute and emphasized the importance of having a high level of clinical suspicion, particularly in patients who have persistent fever despite receiving normal therapy.
In her timely presentation on preventing and reporting sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (PRSEAH) in the workplace, WHO’s Mrs. Grace Ireotoi urged healthcare professionals to respect moral principles and put patients’ dignity first.
A commemorative group photo, the giving of gifts to all attendees, and a business session outlining plans for the upcoming year marked the end of the gathering.
The message was unmistakable when the event came to an end at 6 p.m.: private practitioners in Edo Central are not only increasing access to healthcare, but they are also calling for reform, results, and acknowledgment.
