By Our Reporter
Anambra-born medical professional, Dr Ifeoma Njelita, has been honoured by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Awka Zone, with a Meritorious Service Award for her contributions to healthcare delivery, medical education and the advancement of the profession.
The award was presented during the 2026 Physicians’ Week and Scientific Conference of the NMA, Awka Zone, held in Awka on Saturday.
The ceremony, which brought together medical professionals and other distinguished personalities, featured a luncheon and award presentation under the theme, “Securing the Future of Medicine in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.”
Discussions at the conference centred on two critical issues confronting the medical profession: protecting physicians from burnout, cardiovascular disease and premature death, and transforming healthcare through digital innovation and future-ready medical education.
The association said Njelita earned the recognition through her outstanding professional contributions, exemplary leadership in healthcare service delivery, commitment to institutional development, advancement of medical practice and dedication to improving the health and well-being of Anambra residents.
“The honour acknowledges the value of sustained service, scholarship, mentorship and leadership in advancing the medical profession and improving the health of society,” the NMA stated.
Njelita combines clinical practice with medical education as an Associate Professor and Consultant in Community Medicine. She is also the Medical Director of Rick Foundation Hospital, Awka.
She is married to Dr Chukwudi Njelita and is a mother of two medical doctors.
The NMA also recognised Dr Emmanuel Umenweke of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Medical Centre, Awka, and Dr Amaka Ezeno, a lawyer and member of Life Bench.
The two honourees were acknowledged for their respective contributions to the medical profession and the association.
Beyond celebrating professional achievements, the NMA, Awka Zone, used the occasion to highlight initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of medical practitioners.
Speaking during the event, the zone’s chairman, Prof. Tim-Uzoma Mbaeri, disclosed that the association had visited sick colleagues and organised free laboratory investigations as part of its Physicians’ Week activities.
The tests included prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and urinalysis.
The initiatives reflected the conference’s emphasis on physicians’ well-being, particularly at a time when medical professionals face growing concerns over burnout and work-related health risks.
Mbaeri thanked members and partners of the Awka Zone for their contributions towards the successful organisation of the programme.
The ceremony was chaired by Dr Udoka Imagie and attended by prominent medical professionals, including Dr Ndubuisi Arua, Chairman of the NMA, Anambra State Chapter.
The 2026 Physicians’ Week provided an opportunity for medical practitioners to celebrate professional achievements while examining strategies for strengthening healthcare delivery, protecting the well-being of doctors and preparing the profession for emerging technological and educational demands.
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