Medical Women's Association Pays Tribute to Senior Professionals, Advocates for Guidance and Healthy Lifestyle Among Female Physicians

The Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, MWAN, Lagos State chapter, paid tribute to its elderly members and past leaders over the weekend, while also advocating for more robust mentorship programmes and better work-life balance for female doctors.

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The tribute, dubbed “An Evening With Our Elders,” took place in Lekki Phase 1, bringing together multiple generations of female medical professionals to celebrate a legacy of service, dedication, and shared knowledge.

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Dr Ime Maria Okon, President of MWAN Lagos, addressed the gathering, stating that the association is committed to acknowledging the contributions of its elderly members, many of whom may feel isolated after retiring from active service.

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According to Dr Okon, the association has a responsibility to support its elderly members, who have made significant contributions to the organisation and the healthcare sector, and may now be experiencing loneliness.

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Dr Okon underscored the importance of mentorship within the association, particularly in supporting younger female doctors as they navigate the challenges of balancing professional demands with family responsibilities.

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The MWAN Lagos President explained that the association values mentorship, and is working to pair younger doctors with senior colleagues, who can offer guidance and support in both their professional and personal lives.

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Dr Okon also highlighted the need for female doctors to achieve a balance between their careers and family life, as many struggle to raise children while meeting the expectations of their workplaces.

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The event featured reflections from senior practitioners, who shared their experiences spanning several decades, including those who began their careers in the early 1970s, demonstrating the association's long history of service and resilience.

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Nine distinguished past presidents and notable figures attended the event, including Prof Ibironke Akinsete, Dr Dorothy Esangbedo, Dr Helen Boyo-Ekwueme, Prof Princess Campbell, and Dr Tokunbo Dabiri, among others.

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A highlight of the event was a dance session featuring elderly members, some of whom were between 70 and over 85 years old, who entertained guests and younger colleagues with their energetic performance.

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Participants described the gathering as inspiring, noting that it reinforced the importance of stronger intergenerational ties within the medical profession.

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Dr Okon expressed her gratitude to the elderly members for their mentorship and sacrifices, and wished for their continued good health, so that younger generations can continue to benefit from their wealth of experience.

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The event was part of MWAN Lagos’ guiding principle of “Leaving No One Behind,” which aims to strengthen bonds across generations and advance the role of women in healthcare.