In a bold step toward transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, a team of Nigerian medical professionals in the Diaspora has launched the country’s first-ever Respiratory Therapy Training Initiative — earning high praise from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
The Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, lauded the groundbreaking programme, describing it as a timely intervention that addresses critical gaps in Nigeria’s respiratory healthcare services. Represented by Mrs. Violet Nwosu, Assistant Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols at NiDCOM, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that the initiative aligns perfectly with national efforts to modernize and strengthen the Nigerian healthcare system.
“This training does not only fill a vital service gap but also enhances professional development opportunities for Nigerian healthcare practitioners,” she stated, reaffirming NiDCOM’s commitment to supporting diaspora-led projects that promote capacity building and sustainable progress in Nigeria.
Dr. (Sir) Joe Madu, President of the US/Africa Chamber of Commerce, also applauded the initiative, highlighting its potential to foster brain circulation, boost medical tourism in Nigeria, and improve healthcare delivery through strategic partnerships between local and diaspora medical experts.
“The future of healthcare in Nigeria lies in creative and collaborative thinking,” Dr. Madu noted, urging stakeholders to leverage such partnerships for long-term systemic improvements.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Gbenga Agbelemose, Associate Director of Respiratory Therapy Services at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre, USA, explained that the training is designed for professionals in anaesthetics, cardiology, respiratory care, and related fields. He noted that it offers a clear pathway for physiotherapists and other healthcare workers to transition into the emerging field of respiratory therapy in Nigeria.
“For respiratory therapy to thrive, we need increased awareness, dedicated training opportunities, adequate funding, skilled personnel, and supportive policies — including globally competitive health education curricula,” Dr. Agbelemose added.
On behalf of the government, Dr. Usman Iskilu Saleh, Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NAPHDA), commended the effort and expressed the state’s readiness to partner with the medical team to further develop and invest in its healthcare system.
The training programme, spearheaded by the Association of Respiratory Care Therapists of Nigeria, marks a significant milestone in the establishment and growth of respiratory therapy as a professional field in the country.
As Nigeria continues to pursue healthcare reforms and capacity building, initiatives like this reflect the invaluable role of Nigerians in the Diaspora in driving meaningful, sustainable development at home.