Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has extended her congratulations to Nigerian-born physician, Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, on his historic election as the leader of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). This significant milestone marks Dr. Ogunyemi as the first Black physician to head the prestigious organisation.
Dr. Ogunyemi, a clinical Associate Professor of medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, boasts over 15 years of experience in clinical practice, medical education, administration, and healthcare advocacy. His distinguished career has earned him recognition within the medical community.
As a medical dermatologist, Dr. Ogunyemi has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing quality healthcare to underserved and remote communities. He has been practising in St. John’s and serving as a visiting specialist in Labrador City since 2018, ensuring that geographical location does not hinder access to specialist medical care.
Dabiri-Erewa commended Dr. Ogunyemi’s contributions to medical education through his teaching and mentorship of upcoming physicians. His advocacy for reforms aimed at addressing structural challenges within the healthcare system further underscores his dedication to the field.
According to Dabiri-Erewa, Dr. Ogunyemi’s journey exemplifies the significant value Nigerians in the Diaspora bring to their host countries through professional excellence, community service, innovation, knowledge transfer, and leadership. NiDCOM remains committed to celebrating and strengthening the relationship between Nigeria and its Diaspora.
The achievements of Nigerians abroad, such as Dr. Ogunyemi’s election, provide opportunities for greater collaboration, knowledge exchange, investment, mentorship, and national development. Dabiri-Erewa expressed confidence that Dr. Ogunyemi’s leadership of the Canadian Medical Association would contribute to constructive conversations and reforms around healthcare delivery challenges in Canada and beyond.
Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerian professionals in the Diaspora to continue upholding the values of excellence, integrity, service, and innovation while remaining connected to Nigeria and contributing to the country’s development in their respective fields. Dr. Ogunyemi’s accomplishment serves as a significant milestone that reflects the capacity of Nigerians to excel and provide leadership in critical sectors of the global economy and professional community.
Key points
- Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi is the first Black physician to lead the Canadian Medical Association.
- Dr. Ogunyemi has over 15 years of experience in clinical practice, medical education, administration, and healthcare advocacy.
- NiDCOM remains committed to celebrating and strengthening the relationship between Nigeria and its Diaspora.
