ARD visit Kogi State Gov't, lauds Chief Onoja's sacrifice to late Dr. Idowu's family »

Kogi State Deputy Governor, Chief (Dr.) Edward Onoja, on behalf of his Principal, Governor Yahaya Bello, received in audience, Executive members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) FMC Lokoja, on Monday.

The Excos who felicitated with the Deputy Governor on the occasion of his 47th birthday prayed God to grant him more fruitful years. They also appreciated him for donating a newly-built house to the family of their deceased member: Late Dr. Ahmed Victor Idowu, who died of Lassa Fever on 21st January 2018.

Dr. Enejo Joseph, President of the ARD, speaking on behalf of the Association praised Kogi State New Direction Government led by His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello for revolutionizing the Health Sector whilst adopting the Consolidated Medical Salary Scale (CONMESS) for doctors in the State coupled with the ongoing infrastructural developments across the various senatorial zones.

In the same vein, Past President and General Secretary of the Association, Dr. Nnabuchi Josepheus, and Dr. Sule Samsom respectively described the Kogi Government as one that promotes inclusiveness and frowns strongly against tribal or religious sentiments.

Responding, Chief Onoja who appreciated the leadership of ARD for the visit explained the importance of medical professionals to society in pursuance of their Hippocratic Oath. He narrated that Health and Education remain primal to Governor Bello, recounting how the Late Dr. Ahmed Idowu contracted Lassa Fever in line of duty and died, which according to him, was a sheer passion to work practiced by health workers.

On a side note, Chief Onoja recalled how he wanted to be a Medical Doctor but finally settled for Geology and Mining without regrets. He finally appreciated the ARD whilst pledging support to its subsequent activities.

Highlights of the visit were the presentation of birthday gifts to the Deputy Governor with Appreciation Letters presented to him and his boss, Governor Bello.