Delta state Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has taken swipe at the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), urging it to further build on its dwindling image which is presently at stake and put the profession in the forefront of the nation’s polity.

Uduaghan made the observation during a coutesy call on him by a national delegation of NMA at the Exco Chambers of the new Government House, Asaba on Monday, January 21, 2012, lamenting that “the image of the Nigeria Medical Association has been of great concern to me”, especially as it concerns industrial strike actions.

Uduaghan, who explained that the Delta state government was determined to pay the medical practitioners what is due them, appealed to them for understanding of government policies and strategies, considering the immense responsibilities accruing to government from other sectors of the economy.

The governor, however expressed delight with the new leadership of Dr. Osahon Enabulele by involving past presidents of the association in the moderation of the activities of the medical professional body.

Uduaghan disclosed that the state government is placing emphasis on the development of Delta state beyond oil through adequate provision of medical services and infrastructure to make the state medical tourist centre.

He pointed out that within 18 months, his administration in conjunction with a foreign based expertise would have established services for renal transplant at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara.

Meanwhile, the National President of the NMA, Dr. Osahon Enabulele said the choice of Asaba, the Delta state capital for the 1st National Health Summit was because the state has delivered on its mandate in health care delivery system, adding that the summit with its 15 thematic areas intends to advance the health sector as well as the national development of Nigeria.

While commending Dr. Uduaghan for creating an enabling platform for the summit, the NMA President said: “We have a locus for self introspection and determined to drive collaboration with the Delta state government and the people of Nigeria by providing expertise assistance.”

Dr. Enabulele, who called for a sustained and formidable reforms in governance, urged other leaders and governors to take a cue from Delta state in setting standard in health care delivery.