New Anambra NMA chair vows to tackle  quackery 

Dr Princeston Okam, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and newly-elected Chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra Chapter, has  promised to run a united, vibrant and all-inclusive administration.

Okam, a staff of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi,  who succeeded Dr Jane Ezeonu, also promised to tackle quackery in the medical profession. 

He spoke to journalists in Awka on Sunday.

The new chairman said he would prioritise welfare of  the chapter’s members by ensuring that their welfare packages would be in line with NMA  rules and regulations.

He said the chapter would interface with Anambra State Government to evolve an improved salary structure for doctors in its  employ as well as harmonise taxes payable by private practitioners.

He added  that his administration would set up NMA Anambra co-operative society where pooled funds could be accessed by the members at a low interest rate.

“We intend to liaise  with the state government to ensure  our colleagues in Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital get their reviewed CONMESS, hazard allowance, residency training fund and other benefits.

“We will also pursue a re-negotiated tax to ease  tax burden,” he said.

Okam thanked his colleagues for having confidence in him and promised to operate an effective, responsive and accountable secretariat.

Okam said the chapter would combat quackery and ensure that all hospitals in the state would be properly indexed.

He said that the chapter would  collaborate  with the state government  to achieve the objective.

“It is victory for Anambra NMA, my team will ensure every member is brought on board including my co-contestant.

“We must work together to achieve our common goals,” he said.