In the heart of Lagos, events are unfolding that transcend the traditional boundaries of sports and medicine. From February 19th to 24th, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Games will grace the streets, showcasing a unique blend of athleticism and medicine. Now in its seventh year, it’s more than just a sporting event. It is a movement for health and friendship among medical professionals. More than 1,000 doctors from across the country have gathered in Lagos and the match is poised to be a spectacle of health, strength and unity.
unite through competition
In the competitive spirit of football, basketball, volleyball, golf, track and field, and chess, these games are a testament to the resilience and determination of those who dedicate their lives to healing others. Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, emphasizes the dual purpose of the NMA Games. “It’s about promoting public health through physical activity and fostering unity and sportsmanship in the medical community,” he explains. This year’s event is expected to be attended by prominent figures such as the Lagos State Governor and the Coordinating Minister of Health, highlighting the importance of the game in promoting community in health and medical professionals.
More than just a game
The NMA Games are a platform for doctors to leave their clinical roles and step into the world of sport, showcasing their talents far beyond the walls of a hospital or clinic. It celebrates health not only through the lens of medicine, but also through the joy of exercise, competition, and personal accomplishment. South-South Zone returns with high expectations after winning the last two competitions, but here every participant is a winner and champions the cause of health and friendship. Beyond medals and accolades, the games provide a space for networking, cultural exchange and relaxation, enriching the professional and personal lives of participants.
legacy of wellness
The NMA Games have evolved into more than an annual sporting event. They are indicators of health in the medical community. These are reminders that doctors, who are often seen as caregivers, also need to take care of themselves. They have found unique ways to address non-communicable diseases through sport and emphasize the importance of physical activity for everyone. The games are also a vivid reminder of the unity and diversity within the medical community, bringing together professionals from across the country to celebrate the joys of health, life and sport.
The NMA Games will be held in Lagos and bring the promise of a healthier and more united medical community. In a world where the well-being of healthcare workers is paramount to the health of society, events like this highlight the importance of balance, health and camaraderie. The 7th NMA Games is more than just a competition. It celebrates the spirit of medicine and the enduring strength of those who practice it.
