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History

The NMA traces its roots to 1951 when the British Medical Association formed a branch in Nigeria. Professor O. A. Ajose was elected the first President, and Dr. Brian S. Jones, the Honorary Secretary. Despite initial challenges in establishing branches nationwide and facing government hostility, the Association held its first countrywide Annual General Meeting in 1952.

From the outset, the Association faced numerous hurdles. Dr. Jones's attempts to establish branches across the country were unsuccessful, primarily due to the reluctance of government officials, who constituted the majority of members, to take on leadership roles. The government's hostility towards the association, labeled an "unofficial society," further compounded these challenges. The first nationwide Annual General Meeting, held in 1952, highlighted the Association's core issues: disagreements with members over subscriptions and with the government regarding the role and remuneration of medical officials. This meeting marked a turning point, with the government explicitly declaring its intolerance for criticisms from staff. A subsequent incident involving Dr. Mcletchie led to a ban on government officials holding positions within the Association.

Sir Kofo Abayomi and Dr. Olatunji Adeniyi Jones assumed the roles of President and Honorary Secretary, respectively. By 1954, the Association was embroiled in a conflict with the government over the reorganization of medical services. Mutual suspicion and a lack of cordial relations characterized the relationship between the two parties, hindering progress on crucial issues. Despite these tensions, the government continued to seek the Association's assistance when required. In 1960, members voted to transform the British Medical Association branch into the Nigeria Medical Association. By 1962, the NMA gained government recognition and was officially registered.

The Association gradually evolved into a more democratic organization after 1963. The establishment of the Nigeria Medical Journal in 1964 served as a cornerstone. Recognizing the need to improve the profession's image, the NMA played a pivotal role in the development of the New Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act of 1963, which aimed to enhance professional standards and accountability.

The NMA actively addressed the pressing issue of doctor shortage, recommending the establishment of a new medical school every five years. The Association advocated for increased healthcare funding, aligning with the World Health Organization's recommendation of allocating at least five percent of the federal budget to health. Furthermore, the NMA proposed restructuring hospitals under executive boards and emphasized the importance of siting healthcare facilities in rural areas to improve accessibility. Health education and the implementation of a compulsory rural practice for doctors, similar to the Youth Service Corps, were also key areas of focus.

The NMA has grown into a influential organization with a strong commitment to improving healthcare in Nigeria. Its history reflects a persistent struggle for recognition, autonomy, and the advancement of the medical profession. The Association continues to address critical healthcare challenges, advocate for its members, and uphold high professional standards.

Past Presidents

Dr Uche R. Ojinma

2022 - 2024

Dr Innocent A.O. Ujah

2020 - 2022

Dr Francis A. Faduyile

2018 - 2020

Dr Mike O. Ogirima

2016 - 2018

Dr Sir Kayode L. Obembe

2014 - 2016

Dr Osahon Enabulele

2012 - 2014

Dr Omede Idris

2010 - 2012

Dr Prosper Igboeli

2008 - 2010

Dr Daniel Gana

2006 - 2008

Dr Wole Atoyebi

2004 - 2006

Dr Stephen C. Kitchener

2002 - 2004

Dr Dominic Osaghae

2000 - 2002

Dr George C. Okpagu

1997 - 2000

Dr Boniface Oye-Adediran

1993 - 1997

Dr M.I.L Shehu

1991 - 1993

Dr S.E. Osunde

1990 - 1991

Dr Chief T.A Abiola-Oshodi

1988 - 1990

Dr E. Thompson Akpabio

1984 - 1988

Dr P.I Okolo

1983 - 1984

Dr Bayo Banjo

1981 - 1983

Dr Anjorin Animashaun

1979 - 1981

Dr E.O Olurin

1977 - 1979

Dr Ekpo Eyo

1975 - 1977

Dr Christopher G. Okojie

1974 - 1975

Dr T.F Solanke

1973 - 1974

Dr E. Ade Elebute

1968 - 1970

Dr Sir Kofo Abayomi

1960 - 1964
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