By Divine Sam
The National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP), Oyo State chapter, has urged Governor Seyi Makinde to prioritize the completion and refurbishment of the state’s incubation center for traditional medicine. This appeal was made by the association’s chairman, Chief Dr. Iyiola Omotosho, during a press briefing held after their annual general meeting at Mapo Hall, Ibadan.
Call for Government Support
Dr. Omotosho emphasized that completing the incubation center would greatly enhance the practice of traditional medicine, create job opportunities, and ensure better job security for youths. He reminded the governor of the association’s contributions to the state’s healthcare sector and their role during his 2023 re-election campaign.
Collaboration with NAFDAC
The chairman also appealed to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to collaborate with NANTMP. He recommended that NAFDAC employ a member of the association to oversee the inspection of traditional medicine activities, asserting that only a professional from NANTMP could fully understand the intricacies of the field.
Promoting Global Standards
Dr. Temitayo, CEO of Idera Tradomedical and Spiritual Center, highlighted the association’s efforts to regulate traditional medicine and eliminate fake herbal products. He stressed the importance of bringing herbal practices up to the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and called for a unified approach among practitioners across the country. However, he criticized the national leadership for neglecting members in the Southwest and Southeast regions, accusing them of running the organization like a “business center.”
Grassroots Outreach and Affordability
Dr. Temitayo praised the association’s grassroots efforts, noting that traditional medicine practitioners operate in all local government areas of Oyo State. He emphasized that traditional medicine provides affordable healthcare solutions, especially for those unable to afford hospital bills, offering both physical and spiritual remedies.
Achievements and Unity
The meeting also focused on various topics, including recent elections in Abuja, Odogbo, and Abeokuta, the association’s progress, and strategies to maintain unity and harmony among members. Chief Dr. Iyiola Omotosho congratulated members on their achievements and urged them to continue working collectively to achieve the association’s goals.
The gathering saw the active participation of major stakeholders, who contributed to discussions on advancing the traditional medicine sector in Oyo State.
