Nigerian-born physician, Dr Bolu Ogunyemi, has been elected to lead the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), marking a significant milestone for the organisation.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this in a congratulatory message issued on Thursday.
Dabiri-Erewa said Ogunyemi’s election was particularly significant as he becomes the first Black physician to head the prestigious Canadian medical body.
She described the development as more than a personal achievement, saying it demonstrated the capacity of Nigerians to excel and provide leadership in key sectors of the global professional community.
Ogunyemi is a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland and has more than 15 years of experience spanning clinical practice, medical education, healthcare administration and advocacy.
A medical dermatologist practising in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, he also serves as a visiting specialist in Labrador City, where he has provided specialist medical services since 2018.
Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement signed by NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, commended Ogunyemi for his commitment to improving access to healthcare in underserved and remote communities.
She also highlighted his contributions to medical education through teaching and mentoring young physicians, as well as his advocacy for reforms aimed at addressing structural challenges in the healthcare system.
According to her, Ogunyemi’s career demonstrates the contributions Nigerians in the Diaspora make to their host countries through professional excellence, community service, innovation, knowledge transfer and leadership.
The NiDCOM chief said the commission remained committed to strengthening ties between Nigeria and its Diaspora, adding that the achievements of Nigerians abroad could create opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, investment, mentorship and national development.
She expressed confidence that Ogunyemi’s leadership of the Canadian Medical Association would contribute to discussions and reforms addressing challenges in healthcare delivery in Canada and beyond.
Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerian professionals in the Diaspora to continue upholding the values of excellence, integrity, service and innovation, while maintaining connections with Nigeria and contributing to the country’s development through their respective fields.
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