….Moves to check non-members, fraud; Lokoja head office set for Sunday launch.
By Yahaya Idris, Lokoja
The National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP)
is willing to work with government agencies to address Nigeria’s health challenges.
HRH Chief Dr. Amodu Ibrahim, Chairman of the Kogi State chapter of NANTMP, disclosed during a press conference at its head office in Ganaja Village, Lokoja on Saturday that the association has the backing of both the State and Federal Governments to carry out its official duties, and called on members across the state to key into the association’s vision and mission.
The State announced that the association is working tirelessly with government authorities to identify and expel fake members, reassuring the public of its commitment to delivering exceptional services throughout the State.
He lamented that some non-registered members are using the association as a cover to commit crimes, including defrauding, kidnapping, robbery, and extorting money from unsuspecting victims.
The State Chairman of NANTMP warned that only registered members with licenses will have the power to practice.
He urged all members throughout Kogi State to proceed with registration to ensure full legal and governmental support.
He stated that certain individuals are misusing the association’s name to engage in illicit activities, thereby creating issues that have damaged the association’s reputation over time.
He said the association’s head office launch in Lokoja is scheduled for Sunday at 10 am and invites the general public to attend.
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his Deputy, Elder Salifu Oyibo, were commended for their exceptional support and cooperation, making it easy for the association to operate within the state.
He expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their collaborative efforts and urged those yet to register to take prompt action.
Chief Dr. Shaba Mekudi, National President of NANTMP, said the association’s strategic plan is guided by the world Health Organisation (WHO) report that 95 percent of the world’s population relies on traditional medicine to survive.
He stated that the Federal Ministry of Health successfully coordinated the integration of Traditional Medicine practitioners into one unified body, known as the National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP).
Dr. Shaba Mekudi explained that the association’s purpose is to meet the global benchmarks established by the World Health Organization.
He stated that the association boasts membership in 37 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, and possesses all necessary resources to deliver services locally, nationally, and internationally in pursuit of its objectives.
In line with its commitment to public enlightenment, the association organized a press briefing that brought together key stakeholders, notably Dr. Shaibu Yunusa Oracle, Vice Chairman, Chief Dr. Obele Isah, National Vice President North Central, Dr. Siaka Idu, State Leader, Dr. Belkisu, Kogi State Chapter Woman Leader, and various association members.
