Dr Osahon Enabulele, has emerged as the new president of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), at an election which ended in the early hours of Saturday.
The election which began late Friday night in Abuja was part of activities marking the association's 52nd Annual General Conference.
Other members of the new executive council include the Vice President 1, Dr Bukar Grema, Vice President 2, Dr Ojinmah Uche, Secretary General, Dr Akpufuoma Pemu, Deputy Secretary General, Dr Kefas Zawaya and Treasurer, Dr Priscilla Denan.
In his acceptance speech, Enabulele said he was ready for the challenges ahead and pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessors.
He said the new executive would work to promote improvements in the nation's health system, which he noted was key to economic growth and development.
The immediate past president, Dr Idris Omede, who held the post from 2008 to 2012, urged members of the new executive council to discharge their responsibilities in the interest of the association and the nation.
He expressed confidence in the ability of the new leadership to meet the high expectations of members.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Omede was praised by members for strengthening and repositioning the association, especially in revitalising the Nigerian Medical Journal, resolving the crisis in the National Association of Resident Doctors and reclaiming the association's land in Abuja.
Other achievements of the former president included pushing for the implementation of CONMESS salary scheme by several state governments and the adoption of continuing medical education and professional development of medical doctors in the country.
The NMA had used the occasion to present awards of excellence to some media houses, including the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and chairmen of health committees in the state and national assemblies.
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