FG urged to declare emergency in health sector as Nigeria marks 66

The Federal Government has been urged to declare a state of emergency in Nigeria’s health sector amid the mass exodus of medical professionals from the country.

Convener and host of The Convergence 2026, Mr. Fakuyi Adewale Banjo, made the call during the annual Independence Day medical outreach organised by The Convergence 2026 in partnership with Emzor, Inside Out with Agatha Foundation, IOWA, Rave Television, Royal Home Foundation, International Foundation, Saba Realtor, Mental Health Relationships Alliances, Pottersnest and other organisations.

The outreach, held at the Rave Television Complex, featured free medical examinations, vital signs checks, blood sugar tests, health counselling and distribution of drugs to beneficiaries as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Banjo, while speaking at the event, expressed concern over the continued migration of medical professionals from the country, popularly known as the “Japa syndrome”, warning that the trend was contributing to the weakening of the nation’s healthcare system.

He called on the government to urgently take decisive steps to address the challenges confronting the sector and improve the welfare and working conditions of health professionals.

The convener also urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their health by embracing preventive healthcare and regular medical checks.
According to him, a healthier population is critical to the development and prosperity of the country.

The sixth edition of The Convergence, which has evolved from earlier editions focused on youth and labour, brought together partners, health professionals, volunteers and members of the public to commemorate Nigeria’s independence with a focus on health and national wellbeing.

The programme opened with a prayer by Empress Ene and a one-minute silence in honour of fallen heroes whose sacrifices contributed to Nigeria’s journey as an independent nation.

Speaking during the health session, Dr. Oluwasanmi Akinyera stressed the importance of prioritising healthcare, declaring that “a healthy nation is a wise nation.”
He encouraged participants to pay greater attention to their health and seek medical attention when necessary rather than waiting until health conditions deteriorate.
The outreach also featured a mental health session anchored by Mrs. Maryam Owolabi Silas, while Counselor Mrs. Tomilola Akintunde provided counselling support to participants.

Over 40 beneficiaries reportedly received medical attention during the programme, with professional nurses and counsellors attending to participants after the various health checks and examinations.
Among the beneficiaries was Clementina Ojishunite Onyekachi.
Goodwill messages were also received from Mr. Sabastine Onyewe, CEO of Saba Realtor, and Mr. Abimbola Akambi, who emphasised the importance of the family in building a strong and stable nation.
Akambi described the home as the foundation of a strong nation, stressing the need to strengthen family values as part of efforts to build a better society.

The Convener said the 2026 edition recorded significant partnerships with organisations and individuals who contributed to the success of the programme.
Participants, who were dressed predominantly in the national colours of green and white, expressed satisfaction with the medical examinations, health consultations and other activities organised as part of the Independence Day celebration.
Banjo said the initiative was designed not only to commemorate Nigeria’s independence but also to demonstrate the importance of collective responsibility in building a healthier nation.

He expressed appreciation to the partners, volunteers, medical personnel, counsellors and psychologists who supported the programme, including the Docas, Madam Funmilola Ayinla and My Harry.
The event was also attended by representatives of the media, with both television and print media organisations covering the activities.

The Convergence 2026, now in its sixth year, has previously organised editions centred on youth and labour before consolidating the initiatives under the current platform.

Banjo said the continued evolution of the programme reflected the organisers’ commitment to addressing issues affecting Nigerians and promoting national development through partnerships and community-focused interventions.