A major leadership shift has been confirmed in Nigeria’s medical education space.
The National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria has elected Professor Anthony Nnaemeka Ikefuna as its 24th President.
The announcement has drawn attention across teaching hospitals and universities. However, colleagues say his emergence reflects stability rather than surprise.
Professor Ikefuna was elected during the College’s 137th Governing Board Meeting. His formal investiture is scheduled to take place next week at the College premises. Fellows, academics and health sector leaders are expected to attend the ceremony.
The NPMCN new president is widely respected for his experience and institutional knowledge. A senior fellow described his leadership as steady and principled.
“Professor Ikefuna represents continuity, experience and integrity,” the fellow said. “He understands the system deeply and has contributed significantly to strengthening examination standards, accreditation processes and fellowship training.”
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he studied on a Federal Government scholarship. He later specialized in Paediatrics at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital. In 2011, he became Professor of Paediatrics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Within the College, he has served in several important roles. These include Vice President, Chairman, Secretary, Senate Member and Chief Examiner of the Faculty of Paediatrics. Furthermore, he chaired the Quality Assurance Committee and the Disciplinary Committee.
In these positions, examinations were coordinated and accreditation visits were led under his supervision. Meanwhile, young doctors were mentored through demanding Fellowship programmes.
“His commitment to excellence is unwavering,” another governing board member noted. “He has always insisted that specialist training in Nigeria must meet global standards.”
Beyond administration, Professor Ikefuna has built a strong academic record. Over 150 peer-reviewed articles have been published by him. In addition, he has supervised more than 70 Fellowship dissertations.
He is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. Moreover, he is a Foundation Fellow of the Academy of Medicine Specialties of Nigeria.
In a congratulatory message, the College management expressed optimism. “We are proud to see Professor Ikefuna take on this responsibility,” the statement read.
