Nigerian gynecologists and obstetricians converged last Wednesday in Kano for the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria’s (SOGON) 57th Annual General Meeting. The gathering focused on critical issues surrounding maternal and child health in the country. A highlight of the event was honouring Professor Oliver Ezechi, the Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), with its Award of Excellence in Research.
The award ceremony saw Prof. Innocent A. Ujah, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences (FUHSO), and Dr. Habib Sadauki, President of SOGON, honouring Prof. Ezechi in Kano State.
Dr. Sadauki, addressing the theme “The Tragedy of Maternal Deaths in Nigeria: Our Collective Responsibility” and the sub-theme “Elimination of Cervical Cancer: The Role of HPV Vaccination,” emphasized the conference as an exceptional platform for members to unite and advance gynaecology and obstetrics. He lauded the association’s dedication to enhancing women’s health and delivering safe, comprehensive healthcare.
According to a report by Vanguard, Sadauki encouraged SOGON members to extend their mission beyond the conference, impacting medical institutions, the patients they serve, and the broader healthcare landscape in Nigeria.
In presenting the award, he highlighted Prof. Ezechi’s significant contributions as the Director of Research and Head of the Research Group for Maternal and Child Health at NIMR, Yaba, Lagos. Prof. Ezechi’s research aligns with the themes of the 57th SOGON Annual General Meeting – Kano, 2023.
Prof. Ezechi, in his response to receiving the award, expressed deep gratitude. “Being honoured by one’s teachers and peers is a true privilege. I accept this award with humility and a renewed commitment to serving humanity through research,” he stated. He acknowledged the award as SOGON’s highest recognition for service in women’s health research, both nationally and internationally.
The award presentation was conducted by Prof. Innocent Ujah, former Director General of NIMR and current Vice Chancellor of FUHSO. This recognition of Prof. Ezechi underlines the vital role of research in advancing maternal and child health in Nigeria.
