The National Health Service (NHS) has long been a beacon of hope and healing, a symbol of our
collective commitment to providing exceptional care for all. However, in recent years, we have
witnessed a significant shift in its workforce dynamics. The recruitment of international healthcare
professionals has become an essential strategy to address staffing shortages, enhance the quality of
care, and foster innovation.
Today, we delve into this complex and multifaceted theme, exploring the trends, challenges, and
opportunities that arise from integrating international workers into the NHS. We will examine how
this recruitment impacts the workforce, the patients, and the healthcare system as a whole. Our
discussions will be enriched by your diverse experiences, insights, and expertise, as we seek to
understand and navigate this intricate landscape.
At the heart of our theme lies the rhetoric of association. The very essence of our profession is built
upon the principles of collaboration, empathy, and unity. As healthcare professionals, we are bound
by a shared mission to alleviate suffering and promote well-being. The inclusion of international
practitioners into the NHS workforce embodies this rhetoric, fostering a culture of mutual respect,
learning, and growth.
Diversity and inclusion are not mere buzzwords; they are imperative to the success and sustainability
of our healthcare system. International healthcare practitioners bring with them a wealth of
knowledge, skills, and perspectives that enrich our practice and enhance patient care. Their unique
experiences and cultural competencies enable us to provide more holistic and culturally sensitive
care, addressing the diverse needs of our patient population.
Moreover, the integration of international workers presents invaluable opportunities for cross-
cultural exchange and professional development. It encourages collaborative learning and the sharing of best practices from various healthcare systems around the world. By embracing diversity,
we cultivate an environment where innovation thrives, and where we can collectively devise
solutions to the complex challenges facing the NHS.
However, we must also acknowledge the challenges that come with recruiting international workers.
These include navigating regulatory requirements, addressing cultural and language barriers, and
ensuring adequate support systems for integration and adaptation. It is imperative that we work together to create an inclusive and supportive environment where international healthcare
professionals can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Through our sessions and workshops over the next few days, we will explore these issues in depth.
We will hear from thought leaders, policymakers, and practitioners who will share their insights and
experiences. We will engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and develop strategies to
harness the full potential of our diverse workforce.
As we embark on this journey, let us be guided by the principles of compassion, respect, and
collaboration. Let us celebrate the rich tapestry of our professional community and recognize the
invaluable contributions of international healthcare practitioners. Together, we can build a stronger,
more resilient NHS that is equipped to meet the needs of our rapidly changing world.
In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your presence
and participation. Your commitment to excellence and your dedication to the betterment of
healthcare are truly inspiring. I am confident that this conference will be a catalyst for positive
change, fostering a deeper understanding of the impact of international recruitment and paving the
way for a more inclusive and effective healthcare system.
Thank you, and welcome to the 10th Annual Conference and Scientific Workshop of the Nigerian
Medical and Healthcare Professionals in Diaspora UK/ROI. Let us make these days together
meaningful, impactful, and memorable.
Warm regards,
Dr Jide Onabajo
Chairman, Organising Committee
10th Annual Conference and Scientific Workshop Nigerian Medical and Healthcare Professionals in
Diaspora UK/ROI
President’s Welcome Address
Dear Colleagues,
We are approaching that time of the year for our annual conference and get together, and NMHPD UK/ROI is happy to present yet another wonderful study-day.
The theme of our 7th Annual Nigerian Medical and Healthcare Professionals Scientific Conference and Exhibition coming up in Birmingham, United Kingdom on the 23rd, 24th and 25th of September 2021 is titled “Bridging the Gap Between Culture and Professionalism in a Diverse Society”.
As is our tradition, this conference will aim to bring together our Healthcare Professionals of Nigeria affiliation, and other Healthcare Professionals across the UK and Ireland, friends and colleagues.
This year’s event will investigate culture gap in the diverse society like we have in the United Kingdom and Ireland where systematic differences can hamper communal understanding or relations which may affect our professional disposition.
It will also explore avenues to bridge culture differences and cultural diversity with the intention of bringing to the fore strategies that will enable working across cultures and repairing cross-cultural relationships. This is so important in the healthcare workforce where the overall aim is always to create a savoir-faire atmosphere that ultimately benefits our patients and of course we the healthcare force.
We are hoping to have a larger turnout than previous times including other allied professionals and friends representing the medical and health industry to participate. For us in NMHPD UK/ROI, let us come together and make this 7th annual conference the best attended in our history.
The number of paper contributions to the NMHPD UK/ROI conference remains at a very high level and we are confident that this year we will maintain or surpass the bar set in the past.
We are delighted to have you again this year at our conference and hope you will enjoy it. We wish you all a delightful, informative, and educational stay in Watford London.
Dr. Ayomide Adekoya
PRESIDENT
NMHPD UK/ROI