Stakeholders Advocate Use Of Technology To Improve Nigeria’s Health Sector

Using latest technology can increase healthcare providers’ capabilities and patient access while improving quality of life, stakeholders in the health sector have said, even as they advocated the use of latest technology to improve the health sector.

Stakeholders who disclosed this at the 9th edition of Medic West Africa Exhibition and Conference, organised by leading global exhibitions company, Informa Markets, said the exhibition and conference is a platform to bridge the technology and knowledge gaps in Nigeria and West Africa.

The deputy governor of Ogun State, Engr. (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyedele said, “I think it is very important that these technologies needed to upgrade our health industry and provide international-standard healthcare are brought to our doorstep.

“I welcome Medic West Africa as a platform for key stakeholders to explore what is needed for our facilities and learn more about the newest innovations in healthcare. Having had conversations with exhibitors present and receiving assurance from the manufacturers of their understanding of local context and needs, I am quite happy with what I have witnessed here at Medic West Africa”.

Medic West Africa’s Exhibition Manager, Mr Amogh Wadwalkar, expressed his satisfaction at its growth, continuity of legacy, and impact. He said, “Ten years ago, Medic West Africa began as a platform to showcase the latest innovations in healthcare technology to industry players for the advancement of regional health infrastructures. Now, it has grown to not only be a peerless exhibition platform but also a place of discourse concerning topical issues challenging the healthcare industry.

“This year marks our 9th edition and continues our mission as the premier healthcare trade event and the largest gathering of healthcare trade professionals in the region. We have welcomed thousands of visitors during the past three days to not only explore the newest healthcare technologies but also to build relationships for the sustainable growth of the sector. By inviting and connecting all parties in the health ecosystem, we have facilitated a platform to unearth solutions for the greatest challenges affecting the industry and our communities”.

Informa Market’s Group Director for Healthcare, Solenne Singer, also conveyed the primary goal for Medic West Africa and its unique offerings for this edition, “Our role at Informa Markets is to bring together manufacturers to meet with local buyers to aid in the sourcing of health equipment and solutions for their facilities and the people of Nigeria. We have expended a lot of effort so that the needs of exhibitors and visitors are fulfilled here at the event.

“This year, we unveiled a laboratory segment, Medlab, as the highlight of the show. A distinguished exhibition showcasing innovative products across the medical laboratory industry, it sets the foundation for the introduction of quality diagnostics and care to Nigeria. For future editions, it will be a growing segment with the addition of a representative conference alongside the exhibition.”

The three day event which hosted over 150 exhibiting companies from 32 countries showcasing the latest healthcare equipment and solutions innovations, was well-attended by key stakeholders including Her Excellency, Deputy Governor, Ogun State, Engr. (Mrs). Noimot Salako-Oyedele; the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi; and the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Ogun State, Dr (Mrs) Tomi Coker; amongst other players in the healthcare industry.

Among the technologies exhibited at the conference were state-of-the-art imaging & diagnostics, laboratory equipment, IT systems & solutions, healthcare infrastructure & assets, disposables & consumer goods, pharmaceuticals & supplements, and medical equipment & instruments, among many others.

The revolutionary High-V MRI platform by Siemens Healthineers, Magnetom Free.Star, was one of the highlights of the event, astounding visitors as they explored its disruptive and innovative features, including its DryCool technology. As a virtually helium-free scanner with an ultra-compact footprint and a weight of 3 tons, it harnesses the power of the very latest digitalization technologies to truly improve lives.