Edo State’s traditional medicine sector is poised for a significant resurgence following the inauguration of a new Traditional Medicine Board, ending an eight-year period without official oversight.
Traditional medicine practitioners from across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state lauded Governor Monday Okpebholo for establishing the board, emphasizing the need for ethical practices and the potential for growth within the sector.
High Chief Abudu Ugbesia, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board, expressed his gratitude to Governor Okpebholo and highlighted the importance of sanitizing the traditional medicine environment within Edo State. He also stressed the need to improve the image of trado-medicine.
“Like our Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo would always say, “A New Edo State is Rising,” so also, I want to announce to everyone here present and to the whole world that a new Edo State Traditional Medicine Board is rising alongside,” Chief Ugbesia stated during the inauguration ceremony. “And in view of this fact, we are sanitizing the traditional medicine environment in Edo State.”
The Chairman further emphasized the board’s commitment to upholding ethical standards, warning against any form of malpractice. “We will change the face of tradomedical practices in Edo State, and also positively change the perception of people towards traditional medicines, as roots and herbs are the way to pure natural health,” he declared.
He also stated the need for Edo State to become a leader in the practice and standardization of traditional medicine. “If China and other countries can develop their traditional medicines to the level they are today, Nigeria can do the same and even better. I want to promise us that Edo State will take the lead in this,” Chief Ugbesia said.
Chief Ugbesia also highlighted that the board would emphasize collaborative efforts. “As I look towards achieving all these, I assure you that it will be a collaborative effort, as no one person can do it alone,” he added.
The inauguration marks a turning point for traditional medicine in Edo State, especially considering the prolonged absence of an official board. Chief Ugbesia pointed out the lapse in oversight during the previous administration, noting, “It was embarrassing that the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki did not inaugurate the board after the tenure of the one set up by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole ended in 2016.”
Inaugurated members pledged their full support to the chairman and to the overall mission of improving the standard and reputation of traditional medicine practices within Edo State. The board’s focus on ethical conduct, collaboration, and embracing the potential of traditional medicine promises a new era for the sector and the health of the Edo State population.
