Diaspora Medical Experts Launch Respiratory Therapy Training in Nigeria, Earn NiDCOM’s Praise

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has commended a team of diaspora-led Nigerian medical professionals for launching a groundbreaking Respiratory Therapy training programme in Nigeria, aimed at addressing critical gaps in the nation’s healthcare delivery system.

Speaking on behalf of NiDCOM Chairman/CEO Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Assistant Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Mrs. Violet Nwosu, lauded the initiative as a timely and strategic intervention aligned with ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.

“This initiative not only fills a significant void in respiratory healthcare but also introduces new pathways for professional development within the medical field,” she noted. “It further exemplifies the essential role Nigerians in the diaspora play in national development.”

Dr. (Sir) Joe Madu, President of the US/Africa Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the significance of diaspora-home partnerships in revamping Nigeria’s healthcare system. He described the initiative as a tool for promoting brain circulation and boosting medical tourism, urging stakeholders to embrace more creative and sustainable healthcare solutions.

Dr. Gbenga Agbelemose, Associate Director of Respiratory Therapy Services at Cedar-Sinai Medical Centre, USA, described the programme as the first of its kind in Nigeria. He explained that it targets healthcare professionals in anaesthetics, cardiology, respiratory care, and related disciplines, with the goal of easing the transition for professionals such as physiotherapists into respiratory therapy.

However, Dr. Agbelemose stressed that broader awareness, increased training opportunities, adequate funding, and updated health education curricula are necessary to ensure the success and sustainability of respiratory therapy in Nigeria.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Usman Iskilu Saleh, Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NAPHDA), welcomed the initiative and pledged the state government’s support. He affirmed Nasarawa State’s commitment to partnering with the medical team to enhance healthcare delivery in the state.

The training programme, an initiative of the Association of Respiratory Care Therapists of Nigeria, marks a major step toward establishing and institutionalising respiratory therapy as a core component of Nigeria’s healthcare system