West African College of Physicians opens 49th annual conference in Kano, calls for reforms in health systems, cancer prevention
The West African College of Physicians (WACP) Nigeria Chapter has commenced its 49th Annual Scientific Conference in Kano, with a call for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s health system and greater emphasis on preventive healthcare.
Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, the College’s Nigeria Chapter Chairman and Vice President, Professor Benjamin S.C. Uzochukwu, emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery, urging stakeholders to prioritize healthy living and proactive disease prevention strategies.
In the speech titled “Advancing Healthy Living and Health Systems Reform,” Prof. Uzochukwu said the conference’s theme reflects a vital truth—that the journey to wellness begins not in hospitals, but in homes, communities, and personal lifestyle choices.
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“The theme is a clear call to promote healthier behaviours, prevent diseases before they take root, and empower our citizens to take charge of their health,” he stated.
He highlighted two critical sub-themes guiding the conference: the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund and the fight against preventable and curable cancers.
SolaceBase reports that on the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, Prof. Uzochukwu described it as a transformative tool for improving access to affordable primary healthcare. However, he stressed that its success depends on “transparent governance, sustainable financing, community involvement, and strong political will.”
Turning to cancer, he lamented that many Nigerians continue to die from forms of cancer that are either preventable or treatable if detected early. He said missed screenings, lack of vaccinations, and late diagnoses are contributing to avoidable deaths.
“We must challenge the silence, stigma, and system failures that allow treatable cancers to become death sentences,” he said, adding that the conference will spotlight innovations and partnerships that can reverse this trend.
The event, which brings together over a thousand medical professionals, researchers, and policymakers from across Nigeria and West Africa, aims to foster professional collaboration and chart a path for health sector improvements in the region. The President of the College from Senegal is also attending.
Prof. Uzochukwu praised the Kano State Government for hosting the conference and acknowledged the support of the Federal Ministry of Health, development partners, and academic institutions.
On the issue of medical brain drain—commonly referred to as the ‘Japa’ syndrome—Prof. Uzochukwu described it as both a national and personal issue. He acknowledged that many young doctors are leaving the country due to insecurity, poor working conditions, and inadequate remuneration.
“We don’t have any reason to leave, considering the nation invested in our education, even our postgraduate training. But the reality is, insecurity and poor welfare are pushing our colleagues abroad,” he said.
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He called on the government to invest in teaching hospitals and medical facilities, improve doctors’ welfare packages, and create conducive environments to retain health workers. He also noted that the federal government has begun implementing policies to curb mass emigration, including visa restrictions on medical personnel seeking to train abroad.
Addressing cancer prevention, Prof. Uzochukwu stressed the importance of lifestyle changes.
“Stop smoking, reduce alcohol intake, and exercise regularly. That is the key to preventing many cancers,” he said.
He added that as part of the conference activities, participants will hold a public fitness walk through major streets of Kano on Thursday to demonstrate the importance of healthy living.
The 49th conference is expected to conclude with actionable resolutions aimed at reshaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
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