Trust in Locally Trained Specialists, Says Prof. Ogunbiyi

Prof. Ogunbiyi argues for the trust in locally trained medical specialists, highlighting the establishment of the West African College of Physicians, which aims to train medical specialists within West Africa. This initiative addresses the high costs of training abroad and ensures that specialists are familiar with local health challenges.

The college has produced approximately 7,000 specialists since its inception, contributing to healthcare not only in Nigeria but also in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Ghana. It plays a significant role in health policy research and disease surveillance, particularly during outbreaks such as Ebola and COVID-19.

The college maintains international standards through a robust quality assurance system and collaborates with the West African Health Organization to harmonize training across Anglophone and Francophone countries. This effort is crucial for ensuring that Nigerian doctors meet licensing requirements and are well-prepared to serve in the healthcare system.