By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has described the election of Nigerian-born physician, Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, to lead the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) as a significant milestone for Nigerians in the Diaspora.
According to an official statement signed by the Director, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, NiDCOM, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Chairman/CEO of the Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said Ogunyemi’s election, which makes him the first Black physician to head the prestigious medical organisation, reflected the capacity of Nigerians to excel and provide leadership in critical sectors globally.
Dabiri-Erewa said Ogunyemi’s achievement went beyond personal success, noting that it demonstrated the contributions Nigerians in the Diaspora continue to make through professional excellence, community service, innovation, knowledge transfer and leadership.
Ogunyemi, a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, has over 15 years of experience in clinical practice, medical education, administration and healthcare advocacy.
He is a medical dermatologist practising in St. John’s and a visiting specialist in Labrador City, where he has provided specialist medical services to underserved and remote communities.
Dabiri-Erewa particularly noted Ogunyemi’s service to Labrador City since 2018, describing it as evidence of his commitment to ensuring that geographical location does not constitute a barrier to access to specialist healthcare.
She also commended his contributions to medical education through teaching and mentorship of medical trainees, as well as his advocacy for reforms to address structural challenges within the healthcare system.
The NiDCOM boss said Ogunyemi’s journey exemplified the value Nigerians in the Diaspora bring to their host countries, adding that their achievements also create opportunities for Nigeria through collaboration, knowledge exchange, investment, mentorship and skills transfer.
She reaffirmed NiDCOM’s commitment to celebrating the achievements of Nigerians abroad and strengthening the relationship between Nigeria and its Diaspora.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed confidence that Ogunyemi’s leadership of the Canadian Medical Association would contribute to constructive discussions and reforms aimed at addressing challenges confronting healthcare delivery in Canada and beyond.
She urged Nigerian professionals in the Diaspora to continue upholding excellence, integrity, service and innovation, while remaining connected to Nigeria and contributing to the country’s development through their respective fields.
