Nigeria Govt. Tasks Medical Directors on Aligning with Government Health Priorities
By Admin
The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has charged newly appointed Medical Directors of Federal Medical Centres (FMCs) to align fully with government policies and priorities, emphasizing effective and efficient service delivery.
Dr. Salako gave the directive on Friday, April 17, 2026, in Abuja while presenting letters of appointment to six Medical Directors. Two of the appointments are renewals, while four are fresh.
“I want to encourage you to be fully abreast of the policies and priorities of government and ensure they are reflected in everything you do,” the Minister said.
He identified industrial harmony as a key priority, urging the Medical Directors to maintain open-door policies and sustain regular engagement with staff unions to foster peace and strengthen service delivery.
“You must continuously engage your workforce. We are not saying you should indulge them, but proactive engagement will help resolve issues early and maintain stability,” he added.
The Minister also stressed the importance of delivering quality healthcare services, prioritizing human relations, and ensuring that patients are not denied access to care. He disclosed that the Ministry has established a task force on clinical governance and patient safety, directing the Medical Directors to replicate similar structures in their respective institutions to enhance feedback mechanisms and drive improvements.
Addressing human resource challenges in the sector, Dr. Salako noted that although a faster waiver system for recruitment now exists, some institutions have been slow to take advantage of it.
“We now have a window for expedited recruitment, but some Medical Directors fail to act promptly. You must take full advantage of this opportunity,” he said.
While congratulating the appointees, he urged those reappointed to redouble their efforts and advised new appointees to justify the confidence reposed in them by the President, noting that strong performance would position them for possible reappointment.
In her welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom—represented by the Permanent Secretary Designate and Director of Health Planning, Research and Statistics, Dr. Kamil Shoretire—also challenged the Medical Directors to improve service delivery, ensure efficient management of their institutions, and maintain cordial relationships with host communities.
She noted that despite significant government investment in the health sector, gaps remain in service delivery.
“We must manage our resources, personnel, and expectations effectively. What is required is a consistent upward trajectory in performance and commitment to the well-being of Nigerians,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed Medical Directors, Dr. Evinly A. Nzeribe of FMC Okigwe pledged their commitment to advancing the government’s health agenda and improving the healthcare system. He also sought continued guidance and support from the Ministry.
Similarly, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi Atterwharmie of FMC Birnin Kudu, speaking on behalf of the reappointed Medical Directors, expressed appreciation to the Minister and the Federal Government for the opportunity to serve. He assured that they would faithfully implement government policies and deliver improved healthcare services.
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister for the confidence placed in them, pledging not to disappoint.
The appointed Medical Directors are: Dr. Adamu Abdullahi Atterwharmie (FMC Birnin Kudu, second term), Dr. Evinly A. Nzeribe (FMC Okigwe), Dr. Umar Baba Musami (FNPH Maiduguri), Dr. Mu’azu S.I (FMC Kumo), Dr. Omo Ekeneam (FMC Asaba), and Dr. Abubakar Usman (FMC Bida, second term).
