The Chairman of the Edo State Traditional Medicine Board, High Chief (TDr.) Abudu Ugbesia Godwin JP, has commended the Edo State Government for integrating Traditional Medicine Practice courses into the Edo State College of Nursing Sciences curriculum.
Speaking in an interview, Ugbesia described the move as a major step toward formally recognizing and strengthening indigenous healthcare systems within the state’s academic and professional structures. He disclosed that collaboration between the Board and the College had progressed smoothly, with lectures already commencing for 200-level Midwifery students. According to him, qualified lecturers have been engaged to handle the modules.
Ugbesia explained that the initiative aims to promote structured training, enhance professional standards in traditional medicine practice, and foster mutual respect and collaboration between orthodox and traditional healthcare practitioners across the state.
During a visit to the College in Benin City to finalize modalities for incorporating the courses into the nursing curriculum, the Board’s Secretary, Mrs. Ganiyat Uwaifo, said the Board has recorded significant progress in recent years. She noted that the Board celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2025 and has since adopted a more proactive strategy to consolidate its gains and broaden its impact. Uwaifo expressed appreciation to the State Government and the Board’s leadership for supporting the initiative.
In her remarks, the Provost of the College, Mrs. Mabel Omobude, described the development as progressive and beneficial to students. She commended both the government and the Traditional Medicine Board for the partnership, noting that the inclusion of Traditional Medicine Practice in the curriculum would expand students’ knowledge and provide a more holistic understanding of healthcare delivery.
Also reacting, Prof. (Mrs.) Josephine Ofeimu of the Faculty of Pharmacology at the University of Benin and consultant to the Board, said the programme had long been envisioned and is now a welcome reality.
Dr. Pius Omofezi, a lecturer and traditional medicine practitioner, expressed optimism that the integration would inspire greater interest among younger practitioners while strengthening professional development within the sector. He added that the programme would enhance documentation, improve standards, and support the modernization of traditional medicine practice in Edo State.
