Federal Govt Reaffirms Strengthened Regulation In Health Sector

The federal government has commissioned the South-East Zonal Office of the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN) in Enugu, marking a major step in strengthening regulation, professional standards, and patient safety within the country’s radiography practice.

The minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, who performed the commissioning on Tuesday, said the new office aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative aimed at transforming healthcare delivery nationwide.

Dr. Salako commended the leadership of the board, led by Registrar Prof. Mark Chukwudi Okeji, for completing the project, noting that the Federal Government has already included funding for final furnishing and operationalization in the 2026 budget proposal.

He emphasised that proper regulation remains central to improving health outcomes, warning that quackery and malpractice continue to undermine patient safety.

“Without proper regulation and monitoring, quackery thrives, standards are compromised, and patients suffer. This administration is determined to ensure strict regulation of professional practices in the health sector,” he said

The minister recalled that upon assuming office in October 2024, he undertook a tour of health regulatory bodies including the RRBN to reinforce the Tinubu administration’s commitment to adequately supporting regulators, adding that their funding had been restored after years of suspension.

He charged radiographers to reciprocate government’s support by upholding ethical standards and prioritizing patient welfare.

“A well-regulated, highly skilled workforce ensures accurate diagnoses, safer procedures, and improved patient outcomes,” he said, urging the board to expand registration coverage, enforce radiation safety, and strengthen continuing professional development.

Salako further encouraged the board to deepen the use of digital platforms to bring regulatory services closer to practitioners, especially those in underserved communities. He expressed optimism that the zonal office would improve access to licensing, compliance monitoring, and professional training for radiographers in the South-East and neighbouring regions.

The minister also lauded the Enugu State Government for supporting the project, describing Governor Peter Nduduisi Mbah’s reforms in manpower development, infrastructure and health technology as aligned with national goals.

“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will continue to work with Enugu State Government to ensure people have access to quality preventive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative health services without financial hardship,” he said.

Dr. Salako praised the dedication of Nigerian radiographers, noting that their role in producing and optimizing diagnostic images—using X-ray, MRI, CT, and ultrasound—remains foundational to modern healthcare. He also commended outgoing Registrar Prof. Okeji for his contributions to the growth of radiography practice.

As he declared the new office open, the minister reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to a healthcare system where every Nigerian receives safe, timely and high-quality radiography services.

“Let this zonal office be a catalyst for professional excellence, better health outcomes, and national prosperity,” he said.