A Call to Action for the Nigerian Diaspora
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has issued a strong appeal to Nigerians living abroad, urging them to play a pivotal role in addressing the rising trend of medical tourism. She emphasized the importance of investing in Nigeria’s healthcare sector and redirecting their skills, resources, and experiences back to their homeland. This call comes as part of a broader vision to foster sustainable development and economic growth within the country.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu made these remarks during the 16th Annual Mbaise USA Convention held in Minnesota. The event marked the official launch of the Medville Medical City, a groundbreaking project located in Uvuru, Mbaise, Imo State. This initiative is being spearheaded by the Nigerian diaspora community and represents a significant step toward improving healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria.
Addressing Medical Tourism
The minister highlighted the growing issue of medical tourism, where many Nigerians seek treatment abroad due to inadequate healthcare facilities in their home country. She called on the diaspora to take proactive steps to address this challenge by contributing to the development of the local healthcare system. By doing so, they can help reduce the need for citizens to travel overseas for medical care.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu encouraged the diaspora to view the United States and Europe not as permanent homes but as places where they can gain valuable knowledge and experience. She urged them to use these insights to drive development back in Nigeria, creating a cycle of growth that benefits both current and future generations.
A Vision for Development
The minister praised the efforts of the Mbaise USA community, recognizing their contributions to national development, especially in the healthcare sector. She noted that such initiatives align with the current administration’s foreign policy focus on Democracy, Diaspora, Demography, and Development, as well as President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She described the Medville Medical City as a “legacy project” that has the potential to transform healthcare delivery in Nigeria. The project aims to position Mbaise and the country as centers of medical excellence on the global stage. Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended Dr. Nancy Akunna, the visionary behind the initiative, for her dedication, resilience, and patriotic spirit.
Government Support and Collaboration
The minister assured full support from both the Federal Government and the Imo State Government for the Medville Medical City. She pledged that her office would work closely with stakeholders to ensure the successful realization of the project. This collaboration is crucial for overcoming any challenges that may arise during the construction and operation phases.
At the event, the wife of Abia State Governor, Dr. Priscilla Otti, also spoke about the impact of Mbaise USA. She praised the organization for its grassroots efforts and development-driven agenda. Dr. Otti expressed interest in future collaborations with the Medville initiative, highlighting the potential for shared goals and mutual benefits.
The Role of the Diaspora
The message from Odumegwu-Ojukwu underscores the critical role that the Nigerian diaspora can play in the country’s development. By leveraging their experiences and resources, they can contribute to building a stronger, more resilient Nigeria. This includes not only healthcare but also other sectors such as education, technology, and infrastructure.
The Medville Medical City serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when the diaspora comes together with a common purpose. It demonstrates the potential for innovation and progress when communities are united by a shared vision. As the project moves forward, it will be essential to maintain this momentum and continue fostering partnerships that support long-term development.
In conclusion, the call to action from the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs highlights the importance of the Nigerian diaspora in shaping the nation’s future. By investing in local development and channeling their resources back home, they can help create a more prosperous and equitable society for all.