The First South-South International Neurosurgical and Neuro-Spine Conference, hosted at Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital (IUTH), Okada, was a resounding success, attracting some of the world’s most renowned neurosurgeons, spine specialists, and healthcare professionals.
The well-attended conference served as a pivotal platform for discussions on cutting-edge advancements in neurosurgery and spine care while fostering global partnerships aimed at improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
As the event concluded, the distinguished team of medical experts from Apollo Hospitals, India, embarked on a series of strategic visits before being honored with a grand reception by the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON, CFR.
It was indeed a celebration of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strengthened international partnerships.
Upon arrival in Okada ahead of the conference, the Apollo Hospitals team was warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University Okada, Professor Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, PhD, FAS.
A Warm Welcome by the Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University Okada
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor commended the delegation for their dedication to advancing neurosurgical knowledge and patient care.
Dr. Mansur M. Idris, a renowned neurosurgeon from the National Hospital Abuja, who was also one of the resource persons, joined the team on the courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor. Their arrival set the stage for what would become an enlightening and impactful conference, reinforcing the importance of international partnerships in medical research and innovation.
A Tour of Progress: IUTH Benin Centre.
The delegation visited the IUTH Benin Centre, which is currently undergoing extensive remodeling to meet global medical standards. The visit provided an opportunity to assess the facility’s progress and discuss potential collaborations in neurosurgical and spine treatment services.
The team then proceeded to Independent Television (ITV) Benin, where they participated in a media briefing to officially mark the close of the conference.
During the session, the experts emphasized the need for continuous medical education, technology transfer, and global partnerships. They also highlighted the media’s role in raising public awareness about neurosurgical and spine health.
A Royal Reception and Lavish Lunch at the Esama’s Residence.
The Chief Medical Director of Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Ya’u Abubakar Gagarawa, led the Apollo Hospitals delegation to the palatial residence of the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON, CFR.
The Esama, a man of legendary hospitality and a towering figure in Nigeria’s healthcare and education landscape, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests.
In his signature style of royal generosity, he treated them to a lavish lunch, featuring an exquisite array of continental and traditional Nigerian cuisine, ensuring that his guests experienced the richness of Benin’s cultural and culinary heritage.
The Deputy Chancellor of Igbinedion University Okada and former Governor of Edo State, Chief Dr. Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, joined his father, the Esama of Benin, in welcoming the distinguished visitors.
Dr. Bhati Expresses Deep Appreciation
During the reception, Dr. Aditendraditya Singh Bhati, leader of the Apollo Hospitals team and a highly respected neurosurgeon, spoke with joy and deep appreciation for the Esama’s warmth, generosity, and the priceless gifts presented to him and other visiting experts. Dr. Bhati described the Chancellor’s hospitality as unparalleled, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to healthcare, medical education, and global partnerships. He assured that Apollo Hospitals was committed to strengthening its relationship with IUTH, particularly in the areas of knowledge transfer, research collaboration, and specialized medical training.
A Future Forged in Partnership
Beyond the lavish feast and warm camaraderie, the gathering was an important moment of international medical diplomacy. Discussions focused on expanding training programs, deepening research initiatives, and fostering long-term collaborations to enhance neurosurgical and spine care in Nigeria.
As the Apollo Hospitals delegation prepared to return, they carried not only the success of the conference but also the lasting impression of lovely memories of the moments spent with a visionary leader—Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion.
A Legacy That Lives On
For the distinguished visitors, this experience was a powerful reminder that great partnerships transcend borders.
The Esama of Benin Kingdom once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to global collaborations, ensuring that Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital continues to shine as the pioneer and beacon of medical excellence in Africa.
-Moses Uyi Osaretin, CAO/PRO, IUTH. Okada, Edo State, Nigeria.