From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Founder/Chair, Board of Trustees, Women in Healthcare Network (WIHCN), Dr. Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, has explained the reason behind the decision to launch the Network.
She said the move was in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, noting that WIHCN will exponentially increase the contribution of women to the development of the Nigerian health care system.
This was contained in a communique released at the end of the meeting that culminated in the launch of the Network.
She said: “We knew WIHCN was needed, but I did not anticipate the level of support we received and the number of people that indicated interest to be part of the Network. We are inspired to drive this initiative for all the women in healthcare who aspire to maximise their careers and businesses.”
She disclosed that founding members were drawn from women in various sectors of healthcare system, public and private, notably, Dr. Simisola Alabi, Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas, Mrs. Abiola Ayilara, Dr. Tomi Coker, Dr. Orode Doherty, Mrs. Uzoma Ezeoke, Mrs. Unoma Grant.
Others are Dr. Kemi Ibru, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Dr. Abimbola Ojo, Mrs. Melanie Okuneye, Mrs. Funmi Oridota, Mrs. Yemisi Osakwe, Mrs. Boroji Osindero, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu and Dr. Amy Traore-Shumbusho.
She confirmed that the recent meeting held in Lagos witnessed impressive participation of members. “There were three impactful panel sessions on leadership, financing and mentorship led by founding members, and comprised of industry leaders with inspiring track records.
“The panels showcased what is possible when women come together to inspire other women, and are a preview of future events planned for members of the Network.
“There were high-profile guests and speakers, including the representative of the Vice President, Dr. Uju Rochas Anwukah; Minister of health, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, Dr. Jide Idris, Mrs. Toyin Saraki (Founder/President of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa), Mrs. Abike Dabiri, Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM)); Dr. Atinuke Onayiga, Chairman, Lagos State Health Service Commission; Mrs. Stella Okoli, CEO and Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceutical, and several others.”