Dr Bolade Dele-Ojo has emerged as the new president of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, MWAN, Ekiti Chapter, succeeding Dr. Esther Akinsoto.
The inauguration ceremony was held on Saturday, October 19th, 2024, during the association’s Annual General Meeting in Ado-Ekiti.
Dr. Dele-Ojo, B. F., a Consultant Cardiologist at the Ekiti State Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, will lead the association for the next two years.
In her acceptance speech, she outlined a three-point agenda aimed at advancing healthcare and empowering women in medicine: Strengthening Collaboration: Dr. Dele-Ojo emphasized the importance of partnerships with key stakeholders, including Her Excellency, Ekiti State’s First Lady, Associate Prof Mrs Oyebanji, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Women Affairs, government agencies, international organizations, and civil society to advocate for women’s health and improve healthcare delivery.
She called for concerted efforts to ensure healthcare systems in Ekiti State meet the needs of the community.
Empowering Women in Medicine: Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by women in medicine, Dr. Dele-Ojo pledged to create more mentorship opportunities and to fully integrate the Young Doctor’s Forum into the association. She also plans to organize webinars focused on leadership development and professional growth to support and inspire female medical professionals.
Community Outreach and Advocacy: Dr. Dele-Ojo reaffirmed MWAN’s commitment to health education and preventive care through outreach programs. She stressed the need for accessible healthcare for women and children, especially in underserved areas, and pledged to bring healthcare services closer to those in need.
Grateful for the opportunity to serve, Dr. Dele-Ojo expressed her commitment to leading with integrity and building on the legacy of her predecessors. She envisions a future where the health and well-being of women and children in Ekiti State and across Nigeria are prioritized.
Prominent human rights activist Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) and his amiable wife, Mrs. Funmi Falana (SAN), were in attendance, offering their support to MWAN-Ekiti’s efforts to promote the health of women and children.
The Falanas also presented awards to the outgoing executive members in recognition of their achievements.
In her valedictory address, Dr. Esther Akinsoto, the immediate past president, recounted her tenure’s successes and assured the new executive of her continued support.
Earlier in the week, MWAN’s Scientific Conference featured enlightening lectures. Mr. Mayowa Ekundayo spoke on strengthening food security and public health through home gardening and urban agriculture, while Dr. Abolaji Adekeye, a Consultant Psychiatrist, addressed the challenges of adolescent substance abuse.
The lectures, attended by members of the association and students from five secondary schools, highlighted the association’s dedication to health promotion and education.
MWAN-Ekiti remains committed to its mission of “Healing with the love of a mother,” continuing its vital work in the promotion of health and well-being in Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.
Other members of the newly elected executive committee include Dr. Omolola Ajayi, Dr. Boluwatife Sola-Oniyinde, Dr. Oluwasayo Adegoke, Dr. Jesutofunmi Afolabi, Dr. Bolatito Fajuyigbe, Dr. Cecilia Okunlola, and Dr. Oluwanifemi Adebolu.
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