In a significant gathering of healthcare professionals and leaders, the Islamic Medical Association of Nigeria (IMAN) held its 24th National Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Gombe, Gombe State. The conference, held recently this year, saw the convergence of 779 delegates from across Nigeria’s diverse regions, including the Federal Capital Territory.
The central theme of the conference, “Humanizing Today’s Healthcare,” underscored the importance of preserving the human touch in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, even as advanced technologies continue to shape the industry. Several subthemes were explored, encompassing holistic mentoring, complementary and alternative medicine, research collaboration, burnout prevention, and patient-centered care.
The event adopted a unique hybrid format, combining in-person attendance at the Multipurpose Hall, College of Medical Sciences, Gombe State University, with an online component through Zoom.
Pre-conference activities were characterized by informative workshops and symposiums. Topics covered addiction counseling skills, the role of ICT in leadership development, Islamic cooperatives for wealth creation, and strategies for addressing psycho-trauma among healthcare professionals.
The conference’s opening ceremony was graced by notable figures, with the Governor of Gombe State, His Excellency Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, being represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health. Dignitaries from the academic and healthcare sectors, including the Vice Chancellor of Gombe State University, the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, and other prominent leaders, were also in attendance.
The conference served as a platform for experts to present their research findings. Throughout the event, 21 scientific abstracts and 6 lead papers were delivered, with the theme paper being presented by Dr. Muhammad Saddiq from the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom.
Notably, the participants engaged in robust discussions that identified key challenges within healthcare. These challenges included the need to strike a balance between technology and human-centered care, foster holistic mentoring, integrate traditional and alternative medicine, and address burnout among healthcare workers. The event also underscored the significance of incorporating Islamic principles in healthcare decision-making and conflict resolution.
To tackle these issues, several recommendations were put forth. These recommendations emphasized the importance of training in compassionate care, mentorship programs, collaborative research, and investments in ICT infrastructure. Additionally, the conference called for the establishment of Islamic cooperatives to promote financial growth and highlighted the importance of regular psycho-trauma training for healthcare professionals.
Following the conference, IMAN appointed its new executive members for the 2023 to 2026 tenure, with Prof. Ibrahim Oreagba serving as the National President.
IMAN expressed its gratitude to various stakeholders, including government officials, academic institutions, and healthcare facilities, for their support in hosting this successful event. The Association also extended its thanks to the delegates, the press, security agencies, and the general public for their contributions to the conference’s success.
