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Anambra NMA Calls Off Strike as Kidnapped Doctor Regains Freedom
The Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has officially ended the indefinite strike it initiated in response to the kidnapping of Dr. Stephen Ezeh, a medical doctor based in Ihiala.
The announcement was made on Sunday through a statement signed by the chapter’s Chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and Secretary, Dr Ifeanyi Obiaeli, who confirmed that Dr Ezeh had been released on Saturday.
Following this development, the NMA directed its members to resume their duties at healthcare facilities across the state.
Clinical services were set to recommence as of 8:00 AM on Sunday, August 25. In the statement, the association expressed deep gratitude to all those who contributed to the efforts leading to Dr Ezeh’s safe return.
The NMA also used the opportunity to appeal to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to prioritize security in the state by declaring a state of emergency, particularly due to the rising wave of insecurity, especially kidnapping, which the association said is adversely affecting both the economy and healthcare delivery.
The association expressed its appreciation to the public for their understanding during the strike, describing the period as a difficult one for everyone.
They further expressed hopes that such an incident would not occur again. Additionally, the statement praised members of the medical association for their unity and determination in the face of challenges such as insecurity, which has placed immense pressure on the healthcare sector.
In their appeal, the NMA urged the public, security agencies, professional bodies, and corporate organizations to collaborate with Governor Soludo’s administration to promote peace, security, and improved healthcare in Anambra State.
DDrEzeh’s kidnapping, which occurred on August 15 in Ihiala, prompted the NMA to issue a 48-hour ultimatum, eventually leading to a full strike on August 22 when the doctor had not been released.
After several days of intense negotiations and efforts, his release on August 24 brought an end to the medical strike, allowing doctors to return to their posts and resume providing essential health services to the public.
The NMA closed the statement by expressing hope that the issues of insecurity in Anambra State will be effectively addressed to ensure that such disruptions to healthcare services do not recur in the future.
It has been noted that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) plan to renew their partnership in agribusiness.
The new project is to involve youth in the agriculture business, widen their horizons, and educate them about the agritech sector.
The general manager shared that “The foundation is not only providing grants but also building a system of mentorship, structure, and support that enables corps members to see agribusiness as a serious enterprise pathway.” The plan is to use the NYSC platform to engage youths.
Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, has revealed the government’s intention of placing women in the livestock transformation agenda that they have in store for Nigeria.
During a recent event, he praised women, describing them as the backbone of the country, and shared that the country will keep on needing their support, hence the inclusion of the agenda team.
He also praised the First Lady for the impact she has made in the country so far and her advocacy for women’s empowerment.
Nigerians react as a user claims and shares that the price of rice in Nigeria is already reducing.
“Rice prices are finally dropping, minimum wage can buy a bag now. Step by step, we’re getting there. Nigeria will work in our lifetime.”
It can be noted that rice was sold at ₦85k to ₦90k, however, according to a market survey, the price of rice has dropped to ₦56k to ₦62k.
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