The Chief Medical Director, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, Prof Idia Ize-Iyamu, has decried the low number of qualified orthodontics professionals in Nigeria.
DAILY POST reports that orthodontists are dentists who are qualified to treat irregularities in the teeth and jaws.
Ize-Iyamu made the remarks in her acceptance speech shortly after being elected as the 10th National President of the Nigerian Association of Orthodontists, NAO, in Benin City.
The UBTH CMD, who is a Professor of Orthodontics at University of Benin and Consultant Orthodontist at the University Teaching Hospital, lamented that there are about 74 qualified practitioners serving a population of over 237.5 million in the country.
“I recognize the challenges we face as a profession, from addressing the shortage of orthodontic services in underserved areas, especially as we are few, 74 members in Nigeria to serve a population of over 237.5 million,” Ize-Iyamu said.
She expressed appreciation to all members of the association for the confidence placed in her to lead the Nigerian Association of Orthodontists for the next three years.
She assured that to stay abreast of rapid technological advancements in the health sector, particularly in orthodontics practice, her leadership would be guided by a commitment to inclusivity, transparency and accountability.
Continuing she said, “I am deeply humbled and grateful to stand before you today, accepting the esteemed position as the 10th President, Nigerian Association of Orthodontists. I thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me to lead this noble profession.
“I pledge to work tirelessly with my executive to harness the collective goal of NAO and promote the interests of members, as well as advance the field of orthodontics in Nigeria.
“Our association has a rich history of promoting excellence in orthodontic care, education, and research. As president, I commit to building on this legacy, fostering innovation, and exploring new frontiers in orthodontics.
“We will prioritize initiatives that enhance our members’ skills, promote best practices, and improve patient care.
“As we embark on this new chapter, I invite all members to join me in this journey, sharing your expertise, ideas, and experiences. Together, we can achieve great things, enhance the reputation of our association, and make meaningful contributions to the oral health of Nigerians,” she said.
Until her emergence as the National President, the Chief Medical Director of UBTH was the vice president of the Nigerian Association of Orthodontists.
Earlier in her speech, the immediate past president of the association, Dr. Olayinka Adeyinka, expressed optimism that her successor, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, will take the association to greater heights.
