The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has charged newly appointed Medical Directors of Federal Medical Centres (FMCs) to commit fully to government policies and deliver efficient, people-focused healthcare services.
Speaking on Friday, April 17, 2026, in Abuja during the presentation of appointment letters to six Medical Directors, Salako emphasized the need for strong alignment with national health priorities. The appointments include two renewals and four fresh selections.
“I want to encourage you to be fully abreast of the policies and priorities of government and ensure that they are significantly reflected in everything you do”, the Minister said. He stressed that maintaining industrial harmony remains a top government priority, urging the new appointees to adopt open-door policies and engage regularly with workers and unions to prevent disputes.
“We’re not saying you indulge them, but you must engage them so that issues can be addressed early,” he added.
Salako also underscored the importance of quality healthcare delivery and patient-centered services, warning against the rejection of patients under any circumstance. He disclosed that the ministry has established a task force on clinical governance and patient safety, directing the Medical Directors to replicate similar mechanisms in their respective facilities to enhance feedback and improve care.
Addressing human resource challenges in the sector, the Minister urged the appointees to take advantage of the Federal Government’s expedited waiver system for recruitment, noting concerns over delays by some administrators in the past.
While congratulating the appointees, Salako encouraged those on second tenure to redouble their efforts, while advising first-time appointees to justify the confidence reposed in them for potential reappointment.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, represented by Dr. Kamil Shoretire, called for improved service delivery, efficient management, and stronger community relations across federal health institutions.
“We must ensure an upward trajectory in performance and commitment to the well-being of Nigerians,” she said, noting that despite significant government investment, gaps still exist in the healthcare system.
Responding on behalf of the new appointees, Dr. Evinly A. Nzeribe of FMC Okigwe pledged commitment to advancing the government’s health agenda and improving service delivery nationwide. Similarly, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi Atterwharmie of FMC Birnin Kudu, speaking for reappointed Medical Directors, expressed appreciation for the support of the Ministry and reaffirmed their dedication to implementing government policies effectively.
The newly appointed and reappointed Medical Directors include Dr. Adamu Abdullahi Atterwharmie (FMC Birnin Kudu, second term), Dr. Evinly A. Nzeribe (FMC Okigwe), Dr. Umar Baba Musami (FNPH Maiduguri), Dr. Mu’azu S.I (FMC Kumo), Dr. Omo Ekeneam (FMC Asaba), and Dr. Abubakar Usman (FMC Bida, second term).